Denial Code 44 (CO-44, PR-44) — Meaning & What to Do
Claim Adjustment Reason Code (CARC)
What denial code 44 means: The charge was reduced because it was above the plan's fee schedule.
What to do about denial code 44: For in-network care you normally shouldn't owe the reduced amount.
CO-44 vs PR-44 vs OA-44: what the prefix means
| Code on your EOB | What the prefix means | Who typically pays |
|---|---|---|
| CO-44 | Contractual obligation — the provider writes the amount off | Usually not the patient |
| PR-44 | Patient responsibility | The patient |
| OA-44 | Other adjustment | Often another payer or plan |
The prefix tells you who is expected to absorb the amount; the number (44) tells you why.
Seeing denial code 44 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 40This was billed as urgent/emergency care but wasn't approved as such.
CARC 49This is a routine or preventive service the plan doesn't cover this way.
CARC 39Authorization was requested but denied for this service.
CARC 53Services by this type of provider aren't covered under the plan.
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 44
What does denial code 44 mean on my EOB?
The charge was reduced because it was above the plan's fee schedule.
What should I do about denial code 44?
For in-network care you normally shouldn't owe the reduced amount.
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.