New York State operates a Medicaid Eligibility Verification System (MEVS) as a method for providers to verify client eligibility prior to providing Medicaid services, as simple possession of a Common Benefit Identification Card (CBIC) does not guarantee that a client is authorized to receive services or supplies.

The verification process through MEVS is convenient, as it can be performed through several methods and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is accurate, providing current eligibility status information which is updated daily. Information available through MEVS goes beyond the information available on the CBIC card, and is given in clear, concise and understandable messages. Using MEVS should result in a reduction of pending or denied claims, and consequently help ensure providers receive payment for services rendered.

This manual is designed to familiarize you with the Medicaid Eligibility Verification System. The manual contains different sections discussing the Common Benefit Identification Card, the verification equipment, procedures for verification, a description of eligibility responses, definitions of codes, and descriptions of alternate access methods. You may either view or download this manual by using the options below.

MEVS Provider Manual - Version 2.9, January 22, 2010

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Previous versions of the MEVS Provider manual can be found in the MEVS Provider Manual Archive.