Free guide. Every rule links to its source.
Type 1 vs Type 2 NPI
Which NPI you bill under decides which enrollments you need. Here is the difference, and how to choose the taxonomy code that goes with it.
Checked against each source on October 12, 2026. Rules change, so confirm with the payer or agency before you file.
The two types
- Type 1: "For individual health care providers, such as physicians, nurse practitioners and sole proprietors. Individuals are only eligible for one NPI."
- Type 2: "For health care organizations, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and physician groups. Organizations can have multiple NPIs."
- Incorporated? "An individual who is a health care provider and is incorporated, can obtain an NPI for themselves (Type 1) and an NPI for their corporation or LLC (Type 2)."
- Medicare groups. The CMS-855B for clinics and group practices says: "Applicants using this application require a Type 2 NPI."
- It stays the same. "Your NPI will not change, even if your name, address, taxonomy, or other information changes."
Sources (checked Oct 12, 2026)
Choosing a taxonomy code
CMS: "A taxonomy code is a unique 10-character code that designates your classification and specialization. You will use this code when applying for a National Provider Identifier." To find the right one, CMS points to the National Uniform Claim Committee (NUCC) code set, and it publishes a crosswalk between Medicare provider types and taxonomy codes. Pick the code that matches your license and the services you bill, and keep it consistent across NPPES, Medicare and each plan.
NPPES and Medicare are separate: CMS says updating your NPI record "does not automatically update the provider's Medicare enrollment information."
Sources (checked Oct 12, 2026)
More guides
- Virginia payer enrollment guide: Medicare, Virginia Medicaid and the commercial plans, in order.
- Virginia Medicaid enrollment: DMAS PRSS enrollment and the five Cardinal Care plans.
- How long credentialing takes in Virginia: Each payer's own published estimate, and Virginia's 60-day rule.
- CAQH re-attestation: Every 120 days, and why a plan may not see your profile.
- Medicare revalidation: Due dates, notices, and what happens if you miss one.
- Adding a new clinician: Medicare reassignment and each insurer's own process.
- Medicare effective date: When billing starts, and the 30-day look-back.
- Credentialing readiness checklist: What to have ready before you apply (interactive).
We file it, follow up, and report every Friday.
We prepare and file each application within 5 business days of a complete packet, follow up with each payer, and send you a written status report every Friday. Nobody can promise an approval or a date; the payer decides both.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Rules and payer processes change; always follow the payer's or agency's current instructions. Payer, agency and product names belong to their owners and are used only to describe what each step involves.