Free Medical Bill Help Tracker: What to Ask Before You Pay

Medical bills often contain mistakes, and many hospitals have financial assistance (sometimes called charity care) that can lower or even erase a bill for people who qualify. But you usually have to ask. This free tracker gives you the steps, a phone script, and a place to keep notes on every call.

My Medical Bill Help Tracker

Check the bill, ask for help, and keep track of every call.

1. The Bill

Hospital, clinic, or provider Account number (last 4 digits) Date of service Amount they say I owe Billing office phone

2. Steps to Take

Check off each step as you go. You can do these even after a bill has arrived, and often even if you have insurance.

Done	Step	Notes
	Ask for an itemized bill (a list of every charge, with billing codes)
	Check it for errors: duplicate charges, services I didn't get, wrong dates
	Ask if my insurance was billed correctly, and check my insurance statement (EOB)
	Ask for the financial assistance (charity care) policy and application
	Ask to put the bill on hold while it's reviewed, so it doesn't go to collections
	Ask about a discount for paying in full or a no-interest payment plan
	Get any agreement in writing

3. What to Say on the Phone

"Hi, I'm calling about account number ____. Before I pay, I'd like an itemized bill with the billing codes. I'd also like your financial assistance application, and I'd like the account placed on hold while I review it so it doesn't go to collections. Can you note that on my account? May I have your name?"

4. Call Log

Date	Who I spoke with	What they said	Next step

Ask first, pay second. Chances.org

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Good to know

Nonprofit hospitals are required to have a financial assistance policy, and many for-profit hospitals offer help too. Who qualifies and how much is discounted varies by hospital and state, so always ask for the written policy.
You can apply even after you get the bill, and sometimes even after it has gone to collections.
Don't put a large medical bill on a credit card before asking about assistance and payment plans. Hospital payment plans are often interest-free.
Write down every call: the date, who you talked to, and what they promised. It makes a big difference if there's a dispute later.

Want step-by-step help? Read How to Get Help With Medical Bills, or see all the tools in The Chances Toolbox.

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