Aug 04, 2026
To: PBJ Providers, Vendors
CMS has posted Payroll-Based Journal (PBJ) resources for the internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES) on the QIES Technical Support Office (QTSO) website. The links are provided below. You can find the iQIES Staffing Data Submission PBJ User Manual and the PBJ Error Message Reference Guide in the iQIES Payroll-Based Journal (PBJ) Manuals topic under the Reference & Manuals section.
Available Resources:
- iQIES Staffing Data Submission PBJ User Manual – Provides detailed explanations on how to upload PBJ files, review submission results, manage employee records, and manage staffing hours.
- PBJ Error Message Reference Guide – Provides detailed explanations and troubleshooting guidance for PBJ system error messages.
- PBJ Error Messages Spreadsheet – A downloadable spreadsheet for quick reference and filtering.
Links:
- Provider: https://qtso.cms.gov/providers/nursing-home-mdsswing-bed-providers/reference-manuals
- Vendor: https://qtso.cms.gov/vendors/payroll-based-journal-pbj-vendors/reference-manuals
- iQIES Manuals: https://qtso.cms.gov/software/iqies/reference-manuals
For additional assistance email the iQIES Service Center at iqies@cms.hhs.gov or contact the iQIES Service Center at (800) 339-9313, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM–8:00 PM ET. You may also request assistance via secure chat or schedule a call through CCSQ Support Central. Please note that Chat support is currently limited to 9:00 AM-5:00 PM ET, Monday through Friday.