Hospital Charity Care & Financial Assistance Policies

Administered by Nonprofit Hospitals (ACA Section 501(r)) · cms.gov

Every nonprofit hospital must have a Financial Assistance Policy (FAP) under the ACA. For stroke, heart attack, or major surgery, bills can reach $50,000–$500,000 — most of which can be forgiven or sharply discounted for qualifying patients.

Eligibility requirements

✓Patient at nonprofit hospital
✓Income typically below 200–400% FPL (varies by hospital)
✓Uninsured or underinsured
✓Must apply — not automatic

Insider tip

Ask the hospital billing department for the 'Financial Assistance Application' before leaving or within 240 days of billing. Many hospitals will forgive 100% of bills for incomes under $60,000. For large bills, hire a medical billing advocate (many work on contingency).

How to apply

Apply directly on the official website. GrantLantern does not process applications — we link you directly to the source.

Apply at cms.gov →

Opens the official source. GrantLantern is not affiliated with this program.

Program details sourced from official government and agency websites. Eligibility is determined by the administering agency — not GrantLantern. Verify current requirements at the official source before applying.

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