Question 1

What is an Explanation of Benefits (EOB)?

Accepted Answer

An EOB is a document from your insurance company after a medical visit. It is NOT a bill. It shows what was billed, what insurance covered, and what you may owe. Wait for the actual bill from your doctor or hospital before paying.

Question 2

Can medical debt affect my credit score?

Accepted Answer

As of 2024, medical debts under $500 cannot be reported to credit bureaus. Paid medical debt is removed from your credit report immediately. Some states like California prohibit medical debt on credit reports entirely.

Question 3

What is charity care and how do I qualify?

Accepted Answer

Charity care is free or reduced-cost hospital care. Under IRS rules (501(r)), nonprofit hospitals are legally required to offer it. Eligibility is typically based on income — many programs cover individuals earning up to 200-400% of the Federal Poverty Level. Contact the hospital billing office and ask for a Financial Assistance Application.

Question 4

What is the No Surprises Act?

Accepted Answer

The No Surprises Act (2022) protects patients from surprise medical bills. You cannot be charged more than in-network rates for emergency care, even at out-of-network facilities. Out-of-network providers at in-network facilities cannot bill you without written consent.

Question 5

How do I dispute a medical bill?

Accepted Answer

Request an itemized bill listing every service and CPT code. Check for errors like duplicate billing, upcoding, or wrong patient charges. Write a dispute letter to the billing office (certified mail, keep copies). If unresolved, contact your state insurance commissioner. WhatsOnMyBill.com can help translate codes and draft dispute letters.

Question 6

What are CPT codes on my medical bill?

Accepted Answer

CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes are five-digit numbers that describe every medical procedure, test, and visit. For example, 99213 is a routine office visit and 93000 is an EKG. WhatsOnMyBill.com translates these codes into plain English.