HIPAA-AS

Questions and Answers Format 835: Electronic Remittance Advice

Registering and Receiving

Q. How do I register to begin receiving the 835?
A. Complete the registration forms. If assistance is needed to complete the forms, contact EC Solutions at 800-407-0267. Note: You must obtain a provider number from Wellmark if you do not already have one. See Enrollment under Working with Wellmark.

Q. If I submit paper claims, can I get an electronic remittance advice in the 835 format from Wellmark?
A. Yes. If you are registered to receive an 835, one will be produced no matter how the claims are received by Wellmark (on paper or electronically).

Q. Is the information on the 835 the same information received on a paper remittance?
A. No, paper remittances have fewer fields populated than those sent electronically. The 835 format is design to auto-post to your accounts receivable system. Paper remittances require manually posting and therefore are in a more ‘reader friendly’ format.

Q. If I register to receive the 835, can I still get a paper copy?
A. If an 835 is requested, the paper version will continue to be sent. However, the 835 will contain more complete information.

Q. If I register to receive the 835, does it include electronic funds transfer (EFT)?
A. No, Wellmark will offer EFT in the future. Look for an announcement in the Blue Ink.

Q. How do I receive test 835s?
A. If you want to receive test 835s, call EC Solutions at 800-407-0267.

Q. How do I use the 835 to auto-post to my accounts receivable system?
A. If you need assistance regarding the steps necessary to auto-post to your accounts receivable system, you must contact your software vendor.

Q. Who do I contact if I have question regarding the information received in the 835?
A. If you need assistance in how the 835 process works or the information received in the 835, you may contact Missy Marley by phone (515) 645-6325 or email marleym@wellmark.com.

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