CPT 99409
CPT Code 99409: Alcohol and/or substance abuse structured screening, greater than 30 min
Duration
30+ min
Typical Fee
$50-$100
Type
Outpatient therapy
Note: SBIRT — extended.
When to Use CPT 99409
Use CPT code 99409 when billing for alcohol and/or substance abuse structured screening, greater than 30 min. This code is used by licensed therapists (LCSW, LPC, MFT, Psychologist) for outpatient sessions.
Adding CPT 99409 to a Superbill
When generating a superbill with CPT 99409, include the ICD-10 diagnosis code, date of service, fee charged, amount paid, and your NPI number. Superbilled pre-fills common therapy CPT codes automatically.
Common ICD-10 Pairings
These diagnosis codes are frequently used alongside CPT 99409:
Documentation Requirements
Document more than 30 minutes of structured screening and extended intervention. Include screening tool, results, motivational interviewing, and referral plan.
Common Denial Reasons
- ✗ Time does not exceed 30 minutes
- ✗ Missing screening instrument documentation
- ✗ Billed on same date as 99408 — only one level per encounter
Reimbursement Expectations
OON reimbursement typically 40-60% of UCR. Expect $20-$60 for the extended intervention.