The deadline to submit Payroll-Based Journal (PBJ) data for Quarter 3 (April 1–June 30, 2026) is Friday, August 14, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET.
AHCA strongly encourages providers to submit PBJ data as early as possible to avoid last minute submission issues. Early submission allows time to review validation reports, address any errors, and resubmit files (if needed) before the deadline.
After submitting PBJ data, providers should review all applicable PBJ CASPER reports to confirm that submissions were processed successfully and identify any issues that may need to be corrected before the submission deadline.
Prepare for the Transition to iQIES
Following the August 14 submission deadline, CMS will transition PBJ reporting to the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES). Beginning August 17, 2026, all PBJ submissions and reports will be managed through iQIES. The first PBJ submission through iQIES will be for Quarter 4 (July 1–September 30, 2026), which is due November 14, 2026.
Providers should ensure that staff responsible for PBJ reporting have established HARP accounts, requested the appropriate iQIES role, and received approval from their facility’s Provider Official (PO). CMS provides additional information about this transition in
QSO-26-12-NH.
Resources & Support
AHCA members can find resources to support PBJ submissions on its
website.
Questions regarding PBJ policy should be directed to CMS at
nhstaffing@cms.hhs.gov. For technical assistance, contact the QIES Help Desk at
iqies@cms.hhs.gov or (800) 339-9313. CMS will also provide live phone and email support through
Friday, August 14, 2026, at 8:00 PM ET.