Got a bill?

Already got a bill? Here's what to do.

Medical bills are often wrong or higher than they need to be. Take these steps, in order.

1. 1

   Don't pay yet. Check the price.

   Search for the service and hospital here and open Details to see their published cash price and full price (their starting price before any discount). A bill above the full price is a red flag; if you paid yourself, ask for the cash price.

   Look up the price
2. 2

   Ask for an itemized bill.

   Call the billing office and ask for a full itemized bill with billing codes. You have the right to see what you're paying for.

3. 3

   Apply for financial assistance.

   Hospitals often accept applications after treatment, many for 240 days after the first bill. Ask for the form even if you think you earn too much.

   Check help paying
4. 4

   Uninsured and billed $400+ over your estimate?

   If you paid for yourself and got a Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute a bill that's at least $400 more than the estimate. Start at cms.gov/nosurprises within 120 days of the bill.

5. 5

   Ask for a payment plan.

   Many hospitals offer interest-free payment plans. Ask before putting a medical bill on a credit card.