RAP and final claim timing matters. Submit too late and you lose the RAP or delay payment. Submit the final with errors and you get rejected or audited.
Submission windows
RAP: usually within 5 days of the start of the 30-day period (confirm with your MAC). Final: after the period or episode ends, within the filing limit (typically 60 days to a year depending on the situation). Don’t wait until the last day; build in time to fix rejections.
Common rejection reasons
Missing or invalid data (wrong NPI, wrong date, missing OASIS), duplicate claim, or documentation not on file. For timing details, see Medicare home health billing basics. Fix the cause and resubmit. If you get an ADR, send the requested docs by the deadline. Tracking rejection reasons by payor and by type (e.g. “missing OASIS,” “invalid date”) shows where to focus training or system fixes. We have a RAP/final checklist you can download: timing and a short list of what to verify before you submit. Use the button below to get it.