Hospital Financial Assistance Programs: How to Apply
Every nonprofit hospital in the United States must offer financial assistance as a condition of their tax-exempt status. Most people who qualify never apply because they did not know to ask.
Who Qualifies
Income limits are often more generous than people expect. Many hospitals cover households earning up to 400% of the federal poverty level. For a family of four that is up to $111,000 per year.
How to Apply
Call the hospital billing department and say: I am having difficulty paying this bill. Do you have a financial assistance or charity care program and can you send me an application? You will need proof of income such as pay stubs or tax returns.
What You Can Receive
Depending on your income the program may reduce your bill by 50% or eliminate it entirely. Some hospitals cap what uninsured patients pay at the same rates insurers pay, which is typically 30 to 60% less than the list price.
