Q&A: Determining the deadline for returning overpayments

Q: What is the deadline for refunding Medicare overpayments?

A: Section 6402 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act includes a requirement for healthcare providers to report any overpayments from Medicaid and Medicare. It further states that the overpayment must be refunded within 60 days from the date on which the overpayment was identified or by the due date of the cost report, whichever is later. Failure to return overpayments by the deadline can result in a fine and treble damages.

For more information see The Contemporary Guide to Patient Financial Services.