A common UB-04 data error is missing dates of service. What is the typical consequence?

• A. Faster processing
• B. Increased revenue
• C. No impact on the claim
• D. Denials

Answer: (D)

Dates of service are essential for every UB-04 claim because they show when each service occurred and help the payer determine eligibility and proper payment for the billed items. When these dates are missing, the payer cannot adjudicate the claim, so it’s treated as incomplete and is denied. This is not a situation that speeds processing or increases revenue; rather, it creates a denial that requires correction and resubmission with the missing dates, delaying payment.