Charge missing or invalid
The line charge is blank, zero or in a bad format.
Usual causes
- Zero-charge line on a payer that does not accept them.
- Charge entered in the wrong field or with text characters.
The fix
Enter the charge for each line and resubmit. If a code must be reported at zero (for example some tracking codes), ask the payer how to report it.
Appeal or corrected claim?
Corrected claim.
Deadline to watch
Timely filing limit.
Exact limits are in your payer contract or provider manual. When in doubt, send the correction or appeal this week.
M79 in short
What does M79 mean?
The line charge is blank, zero or in a bad format. The official X12 text reads: "Missing/incomplete/invalid charge."
What usually causes a M79 denial?
Zero-charge line on a payer that does not accept them. Charge entered in the wrong field or with text characters.
How do I fix M79?
Enter the charge for each line and resubmit. If a code must be reported at zero (for example some tracking codes), ask the payer how to report it.
Should I appeal M79 or send a corrected claim?
Corrected claim. Corrected claim.
What deadline applies to M79?
Timely filing limit.