Denial Code 187 (CO-187, PR-187) — Meaning & What to Do

Claim Adjustment Reason Code (CARC)

What denial code 187 means: This relates to a consumer-spending-account (like an HSA/FSA) payment.
What to do about denial code 187: Check your HSA/FSA records for this transaction.

CO-187 vs PR-187 vs OA-187: what the prefix means

Code on your EOBWhat the prefix meansWho typically pays
CO-187Contractual obligation — the provider writes the amount offUsually not the patient
PR-187Patient responsibilityThe patient
OA-187Other adjustmentOften another payer or plan

The prefix tells you who is expected to absorb the amount; the number (187) tells you why.

Related codes

Keep reviewing your bill

Frequently asked questions about Denial code 187

What does denial code 187 mean on my EOB?

This relates to a consumer-spending-account (like an HSA/FSA) payment.

What should I do about denial code 187?

Check your HSA/FSA records for this transaction.

Found this code on your bill or EOB?
Upload the document — MD Bill Check decodes every code, checks the math line by line, and explains what's worth questioning.

Check my bill free

Last reviewed 2026-07-07 · MDBillCheck Editorial Team. Plain-English explanations are original wording; always verify the specific reason with your insurer.