GUIDES

Know what to ask for.

What to check, who to ask and what a business can add. Use the guides on your own, or start a request and let businesses reply with offers.

Medical Bills

How to sort out a medical bill
Check the bill for errors, ask about financial assistance, then agree on the balance and a payment plan that works for you.
9 min read
Charity care: how to apply for hospital financial assistance
Tax-exempt hospitals must have a financial-assistance policy. Find it, check the criteria and apply before you arrange payment.
7 min read
How to request an itemized medical bill (and read it)
Ask the provider for an itemized statement with the service date, billing codes, quantities and adjustments. Compare it with your insurance explanation of benefits.
6 min read
Medical bill in collections? How to sort it out
Check the validation notice, verify the original bill and get written terms for a settled balance or a payment plan.
8 min read
Surprise out-of-network bill? Your No Surprises Act protections
Check the bill, your insurance explanation of benefits and the applicable surprise-billing protections. Follow the insurer’s appeal process and use CMS’s consumer complaint channel when needed.
8 min read
How to sort out an ambulance bill
Request the itemized transport bill and compare it with your insurance explanation of benefits. Then ask about assistance or a payment plan for the remaining balance.
8 min read
How to sort out an ER bill (facility fees and visit levels)
Review the facility and professional charges on an ER bill. Ask how the visit level was set, question discrepancies and agree on payment terms.
8 min read
How to sort out a dental bill (treatment plans and payment options)
Compare the treatment plan, insurance benefits, self-pay price and payment terms before choosing how to pay.
7 min read

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