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Guides / Negotiating

Lower a medical bill

Check it, ask about financial assistance and set up a payment plan.

Takes about 1 hour 6 min read

Medical bills often contain errors, and many hospitals have financial assistance programs. It's worth checking before you pay.

Check the bill

  1. Wait for your insurer's Explanation of Benefits and compare it with the bill
  2. Ask for an itemized bill and look for duplicates or services you didn't receive
  3. Call your insurer about anything denied; you can appeal

Ask about help

  • Nonprofit hospitals are required to have financial assistance policies; ask for the application
  • Ask about a discount for paying in full
  • Ask for an interest-free payment plan before using a credit card

Know your rights

Federal rules protect most people from many surprise out-of-network bills for emergency care. If a bill seems wrong, the CFPB and your state insurance department have consumer guidance.

General consumer information, not legal or medical billing advice. Stretching Money Today isn't paid by any provider mentioned here.