Why preparation matters
Most credentialing delays come from missing or inconsistent information: a name spelled differently on two documents, an expired certificate, or a practice address that doesn't match the payer's records. Gathering everything before you start saves weeks of back-and-forth.
Commonly requested items
- Your National Provider Identifier (NPI) and taxonomy
- Current state license(s) and DEA registration, if applicable
- Board certification, education and training history
- Five or more years of work history, with any gaps explained
- Current malpractice insurance certificate and claims history
- Practice locations, tax ID and group information
- An up-to-date CAQH profile, if the payer uses CAQH
Keep it current
Credentialing isn't one-and-done. CAQH profiles need regular re-attestation, payers revalidate on their own schedules, and licenses and insurance certificates expire. Track these dates from the start.
This guide is general information, not legal advice or instructions for a specific payer, state or accreditor. Requirements change; always confirm against the current official source.