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Checklist: Review a medical bill

Use this before you pay. You do not need to do every step at once.

Use your browser's print option, or the Print button. Sources and dates print too.

Gather

The bill from the provider
The Explanation of Benefits (EOB) for the same date of service
Your insurance card

Compare

Name, date of service, and provider match on both
The amount due matches "patient responsibility" on the EOB
The bill shows the insurance payment and any adjustment

Look for possible errors

Ask for an itemized bill if you only have a summary
Services or supplies you did not receive
Charges listed twice
Insurance not billed, or billed to the wrong plan

If something seems wrong or unaffordable

Call the billing office; write down the date, name, and reference number
Ask to pause collection while it is reviewed
Ask about financial assistance and payment plans

Related

This is general education. For decisions about your own plan, taxes, or legal rights, check your plan documents or a qualified professional.

Review status: Draft. Version 1. Sources retrieved: October 14, 2026.

Sources

Medical bill rights (No Surprises Act protections) Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Applies to: current page. Published or updated: Unknown. Retrieved: .