What To Do
How To Apply for Hospital Charity Care
Hospital charity care programs can fully or partially waive your medical bill. Non-profit hospitals are required to offer them.
Updated August 17, 2026 · 6 min read
Quick answer
To apply for hospital charity care, contact the billing department and request an application. Charity care is available at non-profit hospitals and is based on your income. If you qualify, your medical bill can be fully or partially waived.
What Is Charity Care
Charity care is a financial assistance program that reduces or eliminates medical bills for patients who cannot afford to pay. Non-profit hospitals are required by federal law to maintain charity care policies as a condition of their tax-exempt status.
Eligibility Requirements
Charity care eligibility is based on your household income relative to the federal poverty level. Most hospitals offer assistance to patients earning up to 200% to 400% of the poverty level. Some hospitals extend assistance to higher incomes. You do not need to be uninsured to apply.
How To Apply
Contact the hospital billing department and request a charity care application. You can also check the hospital website. Fill out the application completely and submit it with proof of income. Apply before the bill goes to collections for the best results.
What Happens Next
The hospital will review your application and determine your eligibility within 2 to 4 weeks. If approved, your bill will be reduced or waived according to the hospital sliding scale. If denied, you have the right to appeal.
What the research says
Non-profit hospitals must have financial assistance policies under the Affordable Care Act.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for charity care after the bill goes to collections?
It depends on the hospital. Some will still consider your application if the debt is held internally. Once sold externally, options may be limited.
Does charity care affect my credit?
No. Applying for and receiving charity care does not affect your credit score.
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What To Do
How To Ask for Financial Assistance from a Hospital
Most non-profit hospitals are required to offer financial assistance programs that can reduce or eliminate your medical bill.
What To Do
Can You Get a Medical Bill Waived?
A medical bill can be waived through financial assistance, charity care, or billing error correction, though full waivers are not guaranteed.
What To Do
What Happens If You Cannot Afford a Medical Bill?
If you cannot afford a medical bill, you have several options including payment plans, financial assistance, and negotiation. Ignoring the bill is the worst choice.