< Error codes

Error code

L5 — Not allowed with a procedure paid to another lab

Other lab already paid

This procedure can't be paid on top of another procedure for the same patient already paid to a different laboratory.

What to do: Check which procedure the other laboratory was paid for and whether the two can be paid together.

Code
L5
Description
Not allowed with a procedure paid to another lab

Explanation

Updated October 26, 2026

L5 means this procedure can't be paid on top of another procedure already paid to a different lab.

What it means

L5 means the procedure is not payable in addition to another procedure for the same patient that was paid to another laboratory.

How to fix it

  1. Check which procedure the other laboratory was paid for.
  2. Check whether the two procedures can be paid together.
  3. If you believe the decision is wrong, send a Remittance Advice Inquiry (RAI) through eSubmit, or on form 0918-84, within 7 months of the RA date, with supporting details.

Don't resubmit if

  • The line is already on your RA. Question it with an RAI, not a new claim.

How APEX handles it

APEX reads your error reports and remittance advice from MCEDT and lists claims rejected with this code in its Correction Centre for you to correct and resubmit. See how APEX works · Pricing

Related codes: L1, L3, L6

Sources