Struggling With Medical Bills?
You May Have Options
Medical bills are one of the most common reasons people fall behind financially. Many patients don’t realize that hospitals often offer charity care or financial assistance programs that can reduce or even eliminate medical debt.
You do not need to be uninsured, undocumented, or completely out of income to qualify.

What Is Hospital Charity Care?
Hospital charity care (also called financial assistance) is a program that helps patients who cannot afford their medical bills.
Depending on your income and household size, charity care may:
Reduce the amount you owe
Eliminate part or all of a hospital bill
Stop collection activity while an application is reviewed
Many nonprofit hospitals are legally required to offer these programs.

Who May Qualify for Charity Care?
You may qualify if:
Your income is limited or has recently dropped
You have high medical bills compared to your income
You experienced job loss, illness, or another financial hardship
You are insured but still cannot afford your out-of-pocket costs
Charity care is based on income and hardship, not immigration status.

What Medical Bills Can Be Covered?
Charity care may apply to:
Emergency room visits
Hospital stays
Surgeries and procedures
Certain outpatient services
Each hospital has its own policy, so coverage can vary.

Can I Apply After I Receive a Bill or Collections Notice?
Yes. In many cases:
You can apply after receiving a bill
You can apply even if the bill has gone to collections
Hospitals may pause or stop collections during review
Deadlines apply, so acting quickly is important.

How to Apply for Charity Care:
While each hospital’s process is different, most applications include:
A charity care or financial assistance application
Proof of income (pay stubs, benefits, or a statement of no income)
Household size information
A written explanation of financial hardship (if requested)
If your application is denied, you may have the right to appeal.


Common Myths About Charity Care
Myth: Charity care is only for people with no insurance
Fact: Insured patients may still qualify
Myth: Applying will affect my credit
Fact: Applying does not hurt your credit
Myth: It’s too late once a bill goes to collections
Fact: Many hospitals still accept applications


Important Note:
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Hospital policies vary, and eligibility depends on individual circumstances.