As part of the upcoming July 2026 system release, the Common Working File (CWF) hosts will observe scheduled Dark Days from Thursday, July 2, 2026, through Sunday, July 5, 2026. This timeframe also includes the Independence Day holiday observed on Friday, July 3, 2026.
CMS schedules these Dark Days to allow sufficient time for weekly, monthly, and quarterly processing activities. In addition, the maintenance period supports the successful installation of the July 2026 Release.
Fortunately, providers can continue using Palmetto GBA’s eServices portal during this period. Therefore, users will still have access to beneficiary eligibility information, claim status details, and other online resources available through the portal.
However, the temporary outage will affect certain phone-based services. Since the Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system will not have access to the Common Working File, users will not be able to verify claim status through the IVR during the Dark Days.
Despite this limitation, the IVR system will remain available for several functions. Users can:
- Check the payment floor information.
- Review the last three checks that were paid.
- Request a duplicate remittance notice by providing a check number.
Likewise, the Provider Contact Center will experience limited access during the maintenance period. Because representatives will not have access to the Common Working File, they will be unable to verify beneficiary eligibility related to claim denials.
Providers should plan accordingly and utilize available online resources throughout the scheduled maintenance window to minimize disruptions to their workflow.