J96.9 – Respiratory failure, unspecified

ICD-10-CM 2027 diagnosis code · Other diseases of the respiratory system

Non-billable header

ICD-10-CM code J96.9

Code: J96.9 (claims format: J969)
Description: Respiratory failure, unspecified
Billable: No – use a more specific code below
Valid for: Dates of service October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027 (FY2027)
Chapter: 10. Diseases of the respiratory system (J00-J99)
Block: J96-J99 Other diseases of the respiratory system
Parent codes: J96

Billable codes under J96.9

J96.9 is a header code and cannot be used on claims. Choose the most specific code:

Notes inherited from parent codes

Instructional notes at a category or block level apply to every code below it.

J96 – Respiratory failure, not elsewhere classified

Excludes1 (not coded here):

acute respiratory distress syndrome (J80)
cardiorespiratory failure (R09.2)
newborn respiratory distress syndrome (P22.0)
postprocedural respiratory failure (J95.82-)
respiratory arrest (R09.2)
respiratory arrest of newborn (P28.81)
respiratory failure of newborn (P28.5)

Related codes in J96

Frequently asked questions

What is ICD-10 code J96.9?

J96.9 is the ICD-10-CM code for respiratory failure, unspecified, in the block J96-J99 (Other diseases of the respiratory system).

Is J96.9 a billable code?

No. J96.9 is a header code with more specific child codes; report one of the billable codes listed above.

What category does J96.9 belong to?

It belongs to category J96 – Respiratory failure, not elsewhere classified.

Source: CDC/NCHS ICD-10-CM FY2027 code files, tabular list and index. Reference only – code assignment must follow the official ICD-10-CM guidelines and documentation in the medical record.