N879Remark Code (RARC)ActiveInformational Alert
Effective 03/01/2022

N879 Remark Code - Balance Billing Alert

The N879 remark code indicates that balance billing for out-of-network services is not allowed for the billed services. The payer has calculated cost sharing and payment amounts according to the No Surprises Act, meaning the provider cannot charge the patient beyond the specified amount.

What This Alert Tells You

As an informational alert, the N879 code does not accompany any adjustment or denial reason codes. It serves to notify providers about compliance with regulations regarding patient billing for out-of-network services.

Common Scenarios

1A provider billed for out-of-network services and received payment based on the No Surprises Act, along with the N879 remark.
→ The N879 remark informs the provider that balance billing practices are not allowed and that the payment reflects compliance with the No Surprises Act.
2A patient signed a notice and consent form for balance billing but the claim returned with the N879 alert after being processed.
→ The N879 remark indicates that despite the consent obtained from the patient, balance billing is prohibited for the services billed, as per the regulations.
3A claim for out-of-network emergency services was submitted, and the payer issued an 835 with the N879 remark.
→ The N879 remark clarifies that the payer adjusted the payment according to the No Surprises Act, negating any possibility of balance billing.

What to Do

  1. Do not resubmit the claim based on this alert.
  2. Ensure your billing practices align with No Surprises Act requirements.

What to Check

  • The patient's consent documents to verify compliance with regulations.
  • The claim submission details to confirm the services billed are indeed out-of-network.
  • The payment calculation against the No Surprises Act standards to ensure accuracy.