Claim Submission Workflow
How to Submit a UB-04 / CMS-1450 Paper Claim
A practical institutional paper-claim workflow using the UB-04/CMS-1450 when paper submission is permitted.
Reviewed September 2026 · Educational reference — verify payer and program requirements.
Step-by-step workflow
- Step 1. Confirm paper filing eligibility
- Step 2. Use a compliant institutional form
- Step 3. Complete applicable form locators
- Step 4. Validate codes, dates and provider information
- Step 5. Print clearly and route to the payer
- Step 6. Retain the institutional copy/record as required
Submission rules vary. The correct payer address, portal, clearinghouse, trading-partner connection, companion guide, enrollment and acknowledgment process depend on the payer and program. Use this workflow to organize the process, then follow the payer’s current instructions.