How to Become a Medical Biller and Coder: Step-by-Step

Want a healthcare career where you work with information instead of needles? Medical billing and coding could be a strong fit. To become a medical biller and coder, most people complete a postsecondary training program, learn the main code sets (ICD-10-CM, CPT and HCPCS), practice on real-world style claims and then earn a professional credential. This guide walks you through each step in plain language so you know exactly what to expect.

What Does a Medical Biller and Coder Do?

Billing and coding are two connected jobs that keep a healthcare office paid and its records accurate. Many entry-level roles combine both.

• Medical coders read the provider's documentation and translate diagnoses, procedures and services into standard codes.
• Medical billers use those codes to build insurance claims, send them to payers, post payments and follow up on claims that are rejected or denied.

Billers and coders work in physician offices, hospitals, outpatient clinics, billing companies and insurance-related settings. Some roles are on-site, while others are hybrid or remote once you have experience. If you are still deciding which side appeals to you more, read our breakdown of medical billing vs medical coding.

5 Steps to Become a Medical Biller and Coder

Step 1: Check the Basic Requirements

Most training programs and employers expect a high school diploma or GED. Beyond that, the most helpful traits are:

• Strong attention to detail, since one wrong digit can change a claim
• Comfort with computers, spreadsheets and practice management software
• Good reading skills, because coders review a lot of clinical documentation
• The ability to protect patient privacy and follow HIPAA rules

You do not need a clinical background. Many successful coders are career changers from retail, office work, banking or the military.

Step 2: Complete a Medical Billing and Coding Program

According to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, the typical entry-level education for medical records specialists, the BLS category that includes medical coders, is a postsecondary nondegree award. A good program should cover:

• Medical terminology and anatomy so you can understand what you are coding
• ICD-10-CM for diagnoses
• CPT and HCPCS Level II for procedures, services and supplies
• Claims and reimbursement, including how payers process claims
• Compliance and HIPAA

Look for a program that is approved by recognized bodies and that prepares you for a national certification exam. Online programs are popular with working adults because you can study around your job and family schedule.

Step 3: Practice Real Coding Skills

Reading about codes is not the same as assigning them. While you train, build skills that employers notice:

1. Work through practice cases. Read a short visit note, pick the diagnosis and procedure codes, then check your answers.
2. Learn your code books. Get comfortable with the index, the tabular list and guideline sections so you can find codes quickly.
3. Understand the claim cycle. Know how a visit becomes a charge, a claim, a payment and, sometimes, an appeal.
4. Build software comfort. Many offices use electronic health records and billing systems, so any hands-on exposure helps.

Step 4: Earn a Billing and Coding Certification

The BLS notes that employers may prefer to hire candidates who already hold certification, and that certification usually requires passing an exam. Common entry-level credentials include:

• Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
• Certified Professional Coder (CPC) from AAPC
• Certified Coding Associate (CCA) from AHIMA

Each certifying body sets its own eligibility rules, exam format and renewal requirements, and these can change. Always check the certifying body's official website for current details before you register.

Step 5: Land Your First Billing or Coding Job

New graduates often start in roles such as billing specialist, coding specialist, charge entry specialist, payment poster or patient account representative. To stand out:

• List your credential near the top of your resume, along with the code sets you know
• Mention transferable skills, such as data entry accuracy, customer service or working with deadlines
• Apply to physician practices and billing companies, which often hire entry-level staff
• Be open to an on-site first job; remote roles are easier to land once you have experience

Pay and Job Outlook

The BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook reports a median pay of $51,140 per year for medical records specialists in May 2025. Employment is projected to grow 8% from 2025 to 2035, much faster than the average for all occupations, with about 14,000 openings each year on average. Actual pay varies by location, employer, experience and credentials. Source: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, Medical Records Specialists.

Training With AlliedRx Institute of Healthcare

AlliedRx offers online and hybrid options across its healthcare programs, and our Medical Billing and Coding online program is built for adult learners who need flexibility. AlliedRx programs are accredited or approved through NHA, AMCA and NCCT, and AlliedRx is approved by SCHEV (State Council of Higher Education for Virginia).

Military students and spouses: funding options such as SpouseWorks, Army Credentialing Assistance (Army CA) and Air Force COOL may help cover training. Eligibility and funding approval are required, so speak with an AlliedRx advisor about your situation.

FAQ

Do I need a degree to become a medical biller and coder?

No. The typical entry-level education for medical records specialists is a postsecondary nondegree award, such as a certificate program.

Can I learn medical billing and coding online?

Yes. Many students train online, which makes it easier to keep working while you study.

Which certification should I get first?

Popular entry-level options include the NHA CBCS, AAPC CPC and AHIMA CCA. Compare each one's eligibility rules on the certifying body's website and pick the one that matches your goals.

Is billing and coding a good fit for career changers?

Often, yes. If you are detail-oriented and like computer work, your office, retail or military experience can transfer well.

Ready to start your new career in medical billing and coding? Register today and take the first step with AlliedRx Institute of Healthcare.