BCBS IL: Use Medicaid ID for BCCHP Claims

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If you see members enrolled in Blue Cross Community Health Plans (BCCHP) through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL), there's an important billing change that took effect February 1, 2026 — and if you're still using the subscriber ID, you'll want to update your process now.

BCBSIL says providers should begin using the Medicaid Recipient Identification Number (RIN) — rather than the subscriber ID — when submitting claims for BCCHP members, as required by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS). Here's what you need to know.

What Is Changing?

Effective February 1, 2026, BCBSIL says providers should file claims for BCCHP members using the member's Medicaid Recipient Identification Number (RIN) instead of the subscriber ID number. This is required by HFS for proper tracking and processing of Medicaid claims.

What Is the Medicaid RIN?

The RIN is a unique 9-digit number assigned to each person who receives benefits from the Illinois Department of Human Services. It is specific to Medicaid-enrolled individuals and is required by HFS to properly track and process Medicaid claims.

Where Do I Find the Member's RIN?

You can find the Medicaid ID (RIN) on the member's BCBSIL-issued identification card. BCBSIL's Blue Cross Community Health Plans Manual also includes sample ID cards for reference to help you locate the correct field.

What Is NOT Affected?

This change applies only to BCCHP claim submissions. It does not affect:

• Claims for members with Blue Cross Community MMAI (Medicare-Medicaid Plan)

• Other BCBSIL transactions or claim types outside of BCCHP

Action Steps for Providers

If you haven't updated your process yet, here's what to do now:

• Collect the RIN from BCCHP members at their next visit by asking them to bring their BCBSIL insurance card.

• Update your billing system to use the 9-digit RIN in place of the subscriber ID for BCCHP claims.

• Review the BCCHP manual for sample ID cards and additional guidance.

• Notify your billing team or biller of this change so claims are submitted correctly going forward.

Continuing to use the subscriber ID for BCCHP claims may result in claim rejections or delays in payment — so it's worth updating your process as soon as possible.

More Illinois Medicaid Guides

IMPACT enrollment · Login and biller access · MEDI eligibility · HealthChoice participation · Telehealth billing

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the Medicaid RIN requirement for BCCHP claims take effect?

BCBSIL says providers should begin using the Medicaid Recipient Identification Number (RIN) for BCCHP claims as of February 1, 2026, as required by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS).

What is the Medicaid RIN and where do I find it?

The RIN (Recipient Identification Number) is a unique 9-digit number assigned to each Illinois Medicaid recipient. You can find it on the member's BCBSIL-issued insurance card. The Blue Cross Community Health Plans Manual also includes sample ID cards for reference.

Does this change affect claims for Medicare-Medicaid Plan (MMAI) members?

No. This change applies only to Blue Cross Community Health Plans (BCCHP) claim submissions. Claims for Blue Cross Community MMAI (Medicare-Medicaid Plan) members are not affected.

What happens if I keep using the subscriber ID instead of the RIN?

Using the subscriber ID instead of the RIN for BCCHP claims may result in claim rejections or delays in reimbursement. Update your billing process as soon as possible.

Do I need to update my billing software?

Yes. You should ensure your billing system or EHR is updated to use the 9-digit Medicaid RIN in the appropriate claim field for BCCHP members. If you work with a third-party biller, notify them of this change as well.