How to Apply for Hospital Financial Assistance

What is hospital financial assistance?

Hospital financial assistance, often called charity care, can reduce bills for eligible patients. IRS rules for tax-exempt hospital facilities require a written, widely publicized financial assistance policy covering emergency and other medically necessary care. Ask any hospital about its policy; state requirements may also apply.

Who qualifies?

Eligibility and discounts vary by hospital. A policy may use household size and income relative to a percentage of the federal poverty guidelines, and may have other criteria. Check the hospital policy for the applicable year and rules. HHS publishes the guidelines, including separate figures for Alaska and Hawaii.

How to find the program

Search for the hospital name and "financial assistance" or "charity care," or ask the billing department for its policy and application. Tax-exempt hospital facilities must make their policy documents widely available, including online and in paper form on request.

How to apply

The application may ask for household and income documentation, such as pay stubs or tax returns. Check the policy for required documents and deadlines. Ask the billing department what happens to the bill and collection activity while your application is reviewed.

What if you are denied?

If your application is denied, ask for the specific reason and whether you can appeal. If your income is just above the threshold, ask about the sliding-scale discount program. You can also ask a hospital social worker or patient advocate to help you navigate the process.