Hospital Financial Assistance / Charity Care
Run by Nonprofit Hospitals (ACA Section 501(r)), a nonprofit
Under the ACA, all nonprofit hospitals must have a financial assistance policy. Many will forgive 100% of bills for uninsured or low-income patients, but you must apply. For stroke, heart attack, or major surgery, bills can reach $50,000 to $500,000, and most of that can be forgiven or sharply discounted for qualifying patients.
- Award
- Up to 100% of medical bills covered
- Deadline
- Apply within 240 days of first billing statement
- Run by
- Nonprofit Hospitals (ACA Section 501(r))
- Nonprofit
Who it's for
- Patient at nonprofit hospital
- Income typically below 200 to 400% FPL, varies by hospital
- Uninsured or underinsured
- Must apply, not automatic
Nonprofit Hospitals (ACA Section 501(r)) decides who gets help.
How to apply
You apply on the program's own website. GrantLantern doesn't process applications. We link you straight to the source.
Apply at cms.govOpens in a new tab. GrantLantern is not affiliated with this program.
Hospital Financial Assistance / Charity Care is one option. What else may help?
Many households qualify for more than one program. Answer a few questions to see what else you may qualify for.
Check what I may qualify forFree. No account needed. Your answers are never sold or shared.
Where this comes from
Details are based on the program's official information. Nonprofit Hospitals (ACA Section 501(r)) decides who is eligible, not GrantLantern. Check current requirements on their site before you apply.