Negotiate a medical bill before you pay it
Check an itemized medical bill for errors, ask the provider to lower the amount, and request an interest-free repayment plan if you cannot pay it all at once.
What it costs
Time and effort to request an itemized bill, check each charge, and contact the provider or billing department.
What you get
You can ask for an itemized list of charges, check whether the charges are accurate and reflect services you received, negotiate the bill down to an amount you can afford, and ask whether the provider will accept an interest-free repayment plan.
Notes
Do not assume the first statement is final. Ask questions about any charge that does not look right before agreeing to a payment arrangement. If the bill is already with a debt collector, keep records of your dispute and any assistance application.
Sources
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau — What should I do if I can't pay a medical bill?