Now that Medicare cost reports may be filed online via the MCReF system, it is important to note that the due date has not changed.

Medicare cost reports are still due five months after the facility’s fiscal year end.  Whereas a mailed cost report is considered on time if it is postmarked on or before the due date, the electronic cost report must be received on or before the actual due date.

When you submit a cost report via the MCReF system, the system will electronically postmark the cost report with the date and time it was submitted.  According to CMS’s 10/15/18 webinar on e-Filing, the cost report will be considered on time if it is “e-postmarked” by 11:59 PM EST on the date the cost report is due.  Otherwise, it is considered as having been filed late.

Late filing is subject to penalties.  See our blog on filing late for more information.

Disclaimer:  This blog does not contain legal advice. What it does contain are our best
explanations, advice, and suggestions to help facilities and cost report preparers to understand the cost report forms and offer suggestions for their preparation. Progressive Provider Services assumes no legal responsibility for the content of this blog, nor for cost reports prepared based on the content herein.