On March 13, 2026, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approved the control number for the Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage (ABN), Form CMS-R-131.

The newly updated ABN is effective immediately and is valid through March 31, 2029. Providers may continue to use the expired version of the ABN until May 12, 2026, but must fully transition to the OMB‑approved form no later than that date.

ABNs are issued to Original Medicare (fee‑for‑service) beneficiaries when it is believed Medicare is likely to deny payment for an item or service, for example, when coverage criteria may not be met or frequency limits may apply. Proper use of the ABN helps ensure beneficiaries understand potential financial liability and allows providers to shift liability appropriately when Medicare denies the claim.

Key Reminders

• Only the official CMS‑R‑131 ABN may be used; expired versions must be replaced by May 12, 2026.
• The ABN applies to Original Medicare and should not be used for Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Part D items and services.
• The ABN must be provided before the item is furnished and far enough in advance for the beneficiary to make an informed decision.

The updated ABN, instructions, and alternative formats (including large print and Spanish versions) are available on the CMS FFS ABN webpage. Providers should review internal processes, update forms, and educate staff to ensure timely compliance with the newly updated ABN.