Medical Bill Help in New York
Learn your rights, check charity care eligibility, and generate free dispute letters for medical bills in New York.
New York was a pioneer in surprise billing protections
Strong Independent Dispute Resolution process for billing disputes
Hospitals must wait 120 days before beginning collection actions
Charity Care in New York
Financial assistance requirements for New York hospitals
Governing Law
New York Public Health Law Article 28
Income Eligibility
Up to 300% FPL (varies by hospital) of the Federal Poverty Level
Requirements
New York nonprofit hospitals must have financial assistance policies. Many hospitals provide free or discounted care to patients up to 300% FPL. Hospitals must inform patients of financial assistance availability and cannot use aggressive collection practices.
Application Deadline
240 days after discharge to apply for financial assistance
Typical Discount Tiers
| Income Level | Discount | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 200% FPL | 100% | Free care (typical) |
| 300% FPL | 50% | 50% discount (typical) |
Consumer Protections in New York
Your rights when dealing with medical bills
- Comprehensive surprise billing law protects patients from out-of-network bills
- Patients can request itemized bills and must receive them within 30 days
- Hospitals cannot begin collection actions until 120 days after first bill
- Independent Dispute Resolution process for surprise billing disputes
No Surprises Act in New York
Federal and state surprise billing protections
New York's surprise billing law (effective 2015) was a model for the federal No Surprises Act. It provides strong protections against balance billing for emergency services and non-emergency services at in-network facilities. The state uses an Independent Dispute Resolution process.
Filing Deadlines
Dispute Deadline: 180 days from date of service or receipt of bill
Act quickly to preserve your rights. Generate a dispute letter today.
NY Attorney General
NY Insurance Commissioner
NY Health Department
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