Medical bills don’t work like typical monthly utilities. Different providers, confusing statements, and timing mismatches with insurance can make even small balances hard to manage—especially when they stack on top of credit cards or collections. This guide gives you clear, practical steps you can take today, plus how Money Fit’s nonprofit counseling can help you build a plan that fits your budget.

Quick actions to take today

• Request an itemized bill from each provider and compare to your Explanation of Benefits (EOB). Dispute errors in writing.
• Ask for a 0% payment plan with a monthly amount you can sustain—and get it in writing.
• Check hospital financial assistance (charity care) if the facility is nonprofit; review eligibility and required documents.
• Protect essentials first (housing, utilities, food, transportation) before medical collections.

Step-by-step: how to lower or organize your medical bills

1) Review and correct the bill

Ask for itemized charges and verify dates, codes, and quantities. Compare each line to your EOB. If something looks off, send a written dispute to the provider’s billing department and your insurer, attaching proof (EOB, notes, appointment summaries). Keep copies of everything.

2) Ask for a realistic payment plan

Many providers can set up 0% interest plans. Choose a monthly amount that works with your budget; it’s better to pick a smaller, steady payment than to miss larger ones. Confirm terms in writing (amount, due date, length, late-fee policy).

3) Explore hospital financial assistance (charity care)

Nonprofit hospitals publish Financial Assistance Policies (FAPs) with income guidelines and required documents. If approved, charges may be reduced or written off. Ask how to apply, what time windows apply, and how they treat already-issued bills.

4) If everything feels unmanageable, consolidate eligible debts

When medical bills collide with credit cards and other unsecured debts, a Debt Management Plan (DMP) can simplify life: one structured monthly payment (no new loan), with potential interest and fee reductions on participating accounts. Your counselor will confirm eligibility and terms before you decide. Learn more on our Medical Bills page.

5) If you’re already in collections

Ask the collector for a detailed account history. If you can’t pay in full, propose a plan you can keep—and get every agreement in writing. Avoid opening new high-cost credit to cover medical balances.

6) Avoid common pitfalls

• Medical credit cards / high-APR financing: promotional rates can expire into very high APRs or deferred interest.
• Too-big payment promises: missing the second or third payment can undo hard-won arrangements.

7) Bring the right documents

• Itemized bills & EOBs
• Account numbers, due dates, and contact info for providers
• Monthly take-home income and essential expenses

Angela’s story (2-minute read)

Angela is a working parent who felt buried under hospital, lab, imaging, and specialist bills—plus rising credit card balances. The provider offered a short-term plan with a monthly payment she couldn’t afford, and the notices kept piling up.

Her Money Fit counselor reviewed itemized statements, verified charges, and walked through options. Because the provider plan wasn’t workable for her budget, Angela chose to consolidate her unsecured debts through a Debt Management Plan (DMP)—one predictable monthly payment that fit her income, no new loan.

With the DMP, eligible accounts were set on a realistic payoff schedule projected to be under five years. The single payment and target date gave her peace of mind—and room to focus on her family instead of juggling due dates.

Every situation is different; creditor participation, terms, and outcomes vary.

FAQs

Can medical bills be included in a DMP?

Sometimes—if the provider participates and the account is eligible. We’ll confirm details before you decide.

Will this affect my credit?

A DMP isn’t a loan. Your score may change based on payment history, utilization, and whether accounts are closed to new charges.

Do hospitals have to offer financial assistance?

Nonprofit hospitals publish Financial Assistance Policies with eligibility criteria and documentation. Policies vary by facility.

Is bankruptcy ever appropriate?

It can be a last resort in some cases. A nonprofit counselor can help you assess options and refer to legal resources if needed.

Get help from a nonprofit counselor

Every situation is unique. If you’re facing medical bills alongside other unsecured debts, start online for a free review—or call (800) 432-0310. There’s no hard credit pull for counseling and no obligation to enroll.