You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” estimating how much your medical care will cost if you are...

  1. Uninsured
  2. Insured but choose not to use your insurance for coverage
  3. Insured but who do not have mental health coverage as part of your insurance

Legal requirements

Under the law, health care providers need to give clients who don’t have insurance, or who are not using insurance (to pay for services) an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.

  • You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any
    non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests,
    prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.
  • Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1
    business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care
    provider, and any other provider you choose for a Good Faith Estimate before you
    schedule an item or service.
  • If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can
    dispute the bill.
  • Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate.

For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate

visit CMS.gov or call (800) 368-1019.