Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) requires all Headway providers to be credentialed both individually and through Headway.
This dual contracting process ensures care continuity, meaning that if you ever choose to stop using Headway, your BCBSTX clients can continue seeing you directly as in-network.
If you received an email from us with a link to a form, our records show that you’re not yet credentialed with BCBSTX individually. We’ll handle this process on your behalf; we just need a few quick details from you through the form we sent.
Why providers need to be credentialed individually
BCBSTX requires every provider who works with Headway to also hold their own individual contract with the plan.
This approach ensures that:
- Clients can continue their care without interruption if a provider stops using Headway
- Providers maintain their own standing within the BCBSTX network
- Headway remains compliant with BCBSTX’s updated participation requirements
W-9 requirements
BCBSTX requires a valid, signed W-9 (dated within the past year) to complete your individual credentialing.
A W-9 may be rejected if it:
- Was not submitted
- Lists a business name (e.g., an LLC) instead of your individual name
- Is missing a date or signature
- Is over a year old
- Includes both an SSN and EIN
To avoid delays, please make sure your W-9 meets these requirements before submitting.
W9 line by line guidance
- Line 1 (Name of entity / individual): Include your full name (and nothing more).
- Line 2 (Business name): Do NOT fill out Line 2 - leave blank.
- Line 3a (Federal tax classification): Individual/Sole Proprietor (if true).
- Line 3b (Federal tax classification): Leave blank.
- Line 4 (Exemptions): Leave blank.
- Line 5 /6 (Address): Fill in your address.
- Line 7 (List account number(s)): Leave blank.
- Part I (Taxpayer Identification Number): Fill in your SSN only. Do not include Employer Identification Number.
- Part II (Certification): Sign and date. Make sure the date is in 2025.
If you need more time
We understand that preparing tax forms can take time. Please submit your W-9 as soon as possible so our team can complete your credentialing with BCBSTX. Reach out to us if you have questions around this.
If you don’t submit your W-9
Because individual credentialing is required by BCBSTX, providers who don’t complete their application may eventually be removed from the BCBSTX network.
We’re in close communication with BCBSTX to confirm process details and timelines and will share updates as soon as they’re available.
Accepted documentation
BCBSTX’s credentialing team only accepts W-9 forms, not W-2s or 1099s. To ensure your application is processed successfully, please submit a current, signed W-9 dated within the past year.