How to Get Medical Bills Written Off

Medical bills that are written off are not recognized because the bill has been zeroed out. For example, if a hospital writes off a $100 medical bill, the hospital's records will no longer show the $100 as outstanding. However, medical bills that are written off usually are not forgiven because the bills are purchased by collection agencies. A collection agency will pay the hospital a fraction of the bill, such as $1 or $5 for a $100 medical bill, and proceed to collect payment from you. Thus, you still would owe money for a bill that the hospital wrote off.

Instructions

1

Contact the billing department and explain your situation. Many hospitals and clinics maintain hardship or charity programs to help low-income people. Instead of relying on just one person's response, discuss your request with different employees (e.g., a billing representative and then a supervisor).

2

Apply for assistance through government or non-profit programs that help consumers. Federally funded Medicaid programs are available in every state. Eligibility is based on your income and assets. If you are approved for Medicaid, then some of your bills might be paid retroactively.

3

Gather all medical bills and review them carefully. Throughout the U.S., medical bills constantly have errors. Negotiate with the medical provider for an additional reduction or write off by identifying how you have been overcharged or double-charged, especially if your insurance already has paid a portion.

4

Evaluate your state's statute of limitations. Medical bills stem from services you received, for which you likely signed a contract and consented to the services. Each state has different statutes of limitations that specify how long creditors have to pursue a debt. Once the statute of limitations has passed, the medical bill cannot be collected.

5

Declare bankruptcy. Unlike student loans, medical bills usually can be written off through a bankruptcy. Medical costs represent a common reason why people file bankruptcy. There are various long-term consequences to doing this, as your credit will be impacted and you must disclose the bankruptcy whenever asked, such as by a potential employer or creditor.