Ask: "Do you have a financial assistance policy?" Nonprofit hospitals are required by federal law to have one. It is based on income, not only for people without insurance, and it can cover what is left after Medicare or your insurance pays. Ask for the application in writing; they have to tell you how to apply. You usually have 240 days from your first bill. Some programs forgive the whole balance. They will not bring it up. You have to ask.
If a nonprofit hospital sent your bill, this screens it for financial assistance and drafts the application. The hospital decides.
Check your bill — freeThe check is free. The letter is the paid part: you print and mail it yourself, or we send it by certified mail for you. No account needed to start.
This is the general rule, in plain words. BillFighter is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. If you have been served with court papers, that is the day for a lawyer or legal aid.