How long do I have to dispute a medical bill in California?

In California, you generally have 180 days from the date of service to dispute a medical bill.

Medical Bill Help in California

Q: What are the charity care requirements in California?

In California, All licensed hospitals in California must have a written charity care policy. Nonprofit hospitals must provide free care to patients with family incomes at or below 400% of the federal poverty level. They must screen patients for eligibility before pursuing collections. The income limit is typically 400% FPL.

Learn your rights, check charity care eligibility, and generate free dispute letters for medical bills in California.

California has some of the strongest patient billing protections in the nation

Nonprofit hospitals must forgive bills for patients under 400% FPL

The state prohibits surprise billing for emergency services

Generate Dispute Letter for CA Check Charity Care Eligibility

Charity Care in California

Financial assistance requirements for California hospitals

Governing Law

Hospital Fair Pricing Act (SB 1276)

Income Eligibility

Up to 400% FPL of the Federal Poverty Level

Requirements

All licensed hospitals in California must have a written charity care policy. Nonprofit hospitals must provide free care to patients with family incomes at or below 400% of the federal poverty level. They must screen patients for eligibility before pursuing collections.

Application Deadline

150 days from the first bill

Typical Discount Tiers

Income Level	Discount	Description
200% FPL	100%	Free care
350% FPL	75%	75% discount
400% FPL	50%	50% discount

Consumer Protections in California

Your rights when dealing with medical bills

Hospitals must provide an itemized bill within 10 business days of request
Patients have the right to receive a written estimate before non-emergency services
Balance billing is prohibited for emergency services at out-of-network facilities
Hospitals cannot report patients to credit bureaus until 180 days after the first bill

No Surprises Act in California

Federal and state surprise billing protections

California's AB 72 provides additional protections beyond the federal No Surprises Act. State law caps out-of-network emergency care costs and requires arbitration for disputes over $750.

Filing Deadlines

Dispute Deadline: 180 days from the date of service

Act quickly to preserve your rights. Generate a dispute letter today.

Helpful Resources

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