Answer Summary:
DME owners often assume that updating an address or changing ownership (CHOW) in PECOS is a quick online edit. In reality, a “Change of Information” (CHOI) triggers a 45–90 day review cycle by the MAC. During this time, billing may be suspended or “development letters” may be issued. Providers preparing for the 2026 Bid Window must submit all demographic updates by May/June to ensuring processing is complete before the window opens.
Introduction:
“I’ll just update my address in PECOS next week.”
Famous last words.
In the world of Medicare enrollment, nothing is instant. The Change of Information (CHOI) process is a formal legal amendment to your government contract.
If you are planning to move, sell, or restructure in Q2 2026, you are racing against the clock.
The “Development Letter” Delay
- The Process: You submit the 855S change online.
- The Wait: The MAC has 45 days to review.
- The Delay: If they find one error (e.g., a typo in the bank routing number), they send a “Development Letter.”
- The Reset: The clock stops. You respond. The clock restarts for another 45 days.
- Total Time: 90+ Days.
The “Lockout” Risk for Bidding
If your PECOS profile is in “Pending” status (due to a CHOI review) when the Competitive Bidding window opens, you may be blocked from registering.
- The Rule: NO CHANGES should be submitted within 60 days of the bid window.
- The Deadline: If the window opens in July, all changes must be submitted by May.
WWS Value Proposition:
We Fast-Track Your Updates
Wonder Worth Solutions submits “Error-Free” CHOI applications. We audit the data before submission to prevent Development Letters. We monitor the MAC portal daily to respond to requests instantly, shaving weeks off the processing time.
Need to update your address?
Do it NOW to file your CHOI before the pre-bid freeze
