M62 remark code

Remittance advice remark code M62. Remark codes add detail to the reason code on the same claim line.

Missing or invalid authorization number

Unofficial reference. This is our own plain-English explanation, not the official code text. Payer rules differ. Verify with the payer and the official X12 code list. AlphaPrefix is not affiliated with X12, CMS or any payer. Data last updated Nov 11, 2026.

What M62 means

The prior authorization or treatment authorization number is missing, incomplete or not valid for this claim.

The payer expected an authorization number for this service and either found none or found one that does not match its records. The number may belong to a different service, date range or provider.

This remark usually comes with reason code 15, 16 or 197. If authorization was obtained, correcting the number usually resolves it.

Common causes

• The authorization was obtained but the number was not entered on the claim.
• The number was keyed with a typo or belongs to a different service or date span.
• The service needed authorization and none was requested.

What to do next

1. Check the authorization record for the number, service and dates covered.
2. If authorization was obtained, send a corrected claim with the right number.
3. If none was obtained, check the payer's policy on retroactive authorization before appealing.

Related codes

• 197 (reason code) No prior authorization on file
• 16 (reason code) Missing information or billing error
• MA130 (remark code) Unprocessable claim: correct and resubmit