Apply for Your Type 1 & Type 2 NPI

Before you can credential with insurance or submit claims, you’ll need to apply for two National Provider Identifiers (NPIs). Here's what you need to know and exactly how to apply.

What Is an NPI?

An NPI (National Provider Identifier) is a unique 10-digit number assigned to healthcare providers in the United States by CMS. Most practitioners need two types:

  • Type 1 NPI: For you as an individual provider

  • Type 2 NPI: For your business entity (e.g., your LLC or corporation)

Step-by-Step: Apply for Type 1 NPI (Individual)

Use your legal name, SSN, and select your appropriate taxonomy code (see note below).

Apply here:
👉 https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov/

What to include:

  • Name, DOB, SSN

  • Personal mailing address (can be home)

  • Provider Type: Dietitian/Nutritionist (Taxonomy: 133V00000X)

  • Practice location (use business address if available)

  • Business phone number

  • License information (if applicable in your state)

Step-by-Step: Apply for Type 2 NPI (Organization)

This is for your business (LLC or Corp) and is required to get credentialed with insurance.

Apply here:
👉 https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov/

What to include:

  • Business name as registered with your state

  • EIN (not SSN)

  • Business mailing & practice location address

  • Business phone number & fax

  • Same taxonomy: 133V00000X - Dietitian/Nutritionist

  • Attach your business license if prompted (some insurers require this)

Important Tips to Remember:

  • You can use same login credentials for Type 1 and Type 2 NPIs.

  • Use a professional physical location address for your business (Regus or iPostal can help).

  • Once approved, save your NPI confirmation email and screenshot your NPI profile.

  • Keep your Type 1 linked as a rendering provider under your Type 2 when credentialing.

  • You can update your NPI any time by logging in to NPPES

Which Should I Use When?

  • Type 1 NPI: For charting, individual services, and as the rendering provider.

  • Type 2 NPI: For billing, credentialing, and when submitting claims under your business.

Still Confused?

We help with this all the time in our credentialing services and coaching programs.
Let’s make sure your NPIs are set up right the first time.