Denial Code 149 (CO-149, PR-149) — Meaning & What to Do
Claim Adjustment Reason Code (CARC)
What denial code 149 means: The lifetime benefit maximum for this provider/service was reached.
What to do about denial code 149: Confirm the maximum with your insurer.
CO-149 vs PR-149 vs OA-149: what the prefix means
| Code on your EOB | What the prefix means | Who typically pays |
|---|---|---|
| CO-149 | Contractual obligation — the provider writes the amount off | Usually not the patient |
| PR-149 | Patient responsibility | The patient |
| OA-149 | Other adjustment | Often another payer or plan |
The prefix tells you who is expected to absorb the amount; the number (149) tells you why.
Seeing denial code 149 on your EOB?
A denial code tells you what the payer reported, but it may not tell the whole story. Reviewing your EOB and bill together can help clarify what may need attention.
Related codes
CARC 147The provider's contracted fee for this service was applied.
CARC 150The information submitted doesn't support this level of service.
CARC 146The diagnosis was invalid for the date(s) of service.
CARC 151The information submitted doesn't support this many services.
Keep reviewing your bill
- Medical Bill vs EOB: What Is the Difference?
- How to Dispute a Medical Bill — Find Billing Errors Before You Pay
- What Is an Itemized Medical Bill? How to Request One
Frequently asked questions about Denial code 149
What does denial code 149 mean on my EOB?
The lifetime benefit maximum for this provider/service was reached.
What should I do about denial code 149?
Confirm the maximum with your insurer.
Seeing this code on your own EOB?
Upload the EOB, the bill, or both — MD Bill Check reads the codes on your documents, compares them side by side, and flags what's worth questioning. Free, no account needed.