N303Remark Code (RARC)Active
Effective 12/02/2004

N303 Remark Code - Missing Principal Procedure Date

The N303 remark code indicates that the principal procedure date is missing, incomplete, or invalid. This remark supplements an adjustment described by a Claim Adjustment Reason Code and helps clarify why the claim was not processed correctly due to this date issue.

How It Relates to the Denial

The N303 code typically accompanies adjustment reason codes related to missing or incorrect claim details. Together, they signal that the claim cannot be processed until the principal procedure date is properly provided or corrected.

Common Scenarios

1A hospital submits a claim for a surgical procedure but omits the date of the surgery. The remittance advice returns with an adjustment reason code indicating a denial due to missing information.
→ The N303 remark code clarifies that the denial was specifically because the principal procedure date was not included in the claim submission.
2A provider bills for a diagnostic test but includes a procedure date that does not match the service provided. The payer returns the claim with an adjustment for invalid procedure details.
→ The N303 remark code indicates that the provided procedure date is not acceptable, prompting the need for a valid date to ensure proper processing.
3A claim for a physical therapy session is submitted without the date of the initial evaluation. The remittance shows an adjustment for incomplete claim information.
→ The N303 remark code signals that the missing principal procedure date is the reason for the claim's denial, necessitating correction before resubmission.

What to Do

  1. Obtain the correct principal procedure date and ensure it is complete.
  2. Update the claim with the valid procedure date and resubmit for processing.
  3. Review documentation to confirm that the procedure date aligns with the billed services.

What to Check

  • The claim form to verify if the principal procedure date is present and accurate.
  • Supporting documentation for the procedure performed to confirm the date.
  • Payer guidelines regarding the requirements for procedure dates on claims.