Complete Guide to Hospital Charity Care Programs

Charity care is free or discounted medical care provided by nonprofit hospitals. Under IRS 501(r) regulations, nonprofit hospitals must offer financial assistance to qualifying patients. This can reduce bills by 25-100% depending on your income level.

Eligibility is typically based on household income as a percentage of Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Most programs cover patients with income up to 200-400% FPL. A family of 4 earning up to $62,400 (200% FPL) to $124,800 (400% FPL) may qualify for some assistance.

Programs usually offer tiered discounts: 100% free care for those below 100-150% FPL, 75% discount for 150-200% FPL, 50% discount for 200-300% FPL, and 25% discount for 300-400% FPL. Exact tiers vary by hospital.

Contact the hospital billing department and request a financial assistance application. You'll typically need proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns), proof of household size, proof of residence, and identification. Applications can often be submitted retroactively.

Apply as soon as possible. Most hospitals accept applications up to 240 days after the first billing statement. Some states require longer windows. Don't wait until the bill goes to collections.

Nonprofit hospitals must make financial assistance policies publicly available, notify patients about assistance programs, not use extraordinary collection actions until determining eligibility, and provide bills in plain language.