04/14/2026

ASCO’s April 2026 Coding Tip of the Month: ABN Form

CMS has released an updated Advance Beneficiary Notice of Non-coverage (ABN) form, featuring a new expiration date of March 31, 2029. While practices may use the previous v.2026 version during the current transition period, the new v.2029 form becomes mandatory for all ABNs issued on or after May 12, 2026.

This form is critical in oncology when Medicare is expected to deny Part B services, such as (but not limited to) diagnostic labs exceeding frequency limits or therapeutic injections with known non-covered diagnoses. CMS provides a detailed explanation on using of advanced written notices available in the MLN booklet “Medicare Advance Written Notices of Non-Coverage” and an associated tutorial. Providing a patient with this information prior to service allows the patient to make an informed decision about their procedure and potential liability.

Issuing an expired form after the transition expiration date renders the notice invalid, meaning the practice cannot collect payment from the patient if Medicare denies the claim. Note that this form is for Medicare use only.

Stay up-to-date on ASCO's Coding and Reimbursement page.