CMS COBA File Formats and Connectivity
Guidance for current in-use production claim file formats under the COBA program, in accordance with the transaction and code sets adopted by the Secretary of Health and Human Services through a final rule published in 45 CFR 162 during 2009 and within the Federal Register dated January 16, 2009.
Issued by: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
Issue Date: February 27, 2020
In-Use COBA Claim File Formats
The current in-use production claim file formats under the COBA program, in accordance with the transaction and code sets adopted by the Secretary of Health & Human Services through a final rule published in 45 CFR 162 during 2009 and within the Federal Register dated January 16, 2009, are as follows:
- American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Accredited Standards Committee (ASC) X12 837 version 5010A2 institutional claim
- ANSI ASC X12 837 version 5010A1 professional claim
- National Council for Prescription Drugs (NCPDP) Version D.0, Batch Standard 1.2
A link to the final rule is available in the Related Links section near the bottom of this page.
Copies of current file layouts are available in the Downloads section near the bottom of this page.
COBA Connectivity
COBA trading partners must complete the initial COBA Electronic Transmittal Form (available in the Downloads section below) to effectuate connectivity, regardless of the option exercised.
The HTTPS User Guide (available in the Downloads section below) contains specifications for one of the sub-options available as part of Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP).
For information on the available Connect:Direct (NDM/IP)or Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) connectivity options, please contact your EDI representative or if you do not have an assigned representative, please contact the EDI Department at 1-646-458-6740.
HHS is committed to making its websites and documents accessible to the widest possible audience, including individuals with disabilities. We are in the process of retroactively making some documents accessible. If you need assistance accessing an accessible version of this document, please reach out to the guidance@hhs.gov.
DISCLAIMER: The contents of this database lack the force and effect of law, except as authorized by law (including Medicare Advantage Rate Announcements and Advance Notices) or as specifically incorporated into a contract. The Department may not cite, use, or rely on any guidance that is not posted on the guidance repository, except to establish historical facts.