How to get help with medical bills

Find help paying for medical care

Government programs can help pay for medical care. Depending on the program, you may also be eligible for help with vision and dental care. Your income, age, employment status, and qualifying health issues will determine your eligibility. These programs include:

• Medicaid
• Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
• Medicare
• The Affordable Care Act (ACA) / Health Insurance Marketplace
• Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA)

Learn how these programs work, find out if you are eligible, and see how to apply.

More help with medical bills after insurance

If you already receive coverage from Medicaid, Medicare, ACA Marketplace, or other insurance, additional programs may provide further support.

• Charity care - If you still need help with medical bills after health insurance or Medicaid payments have been applied, a charity care program may assist you with the remaining costs. In most cases, you can apply for charity care through a doctor or hospital where you are seeking medical treatment.Learn more about charity care and how it works.
• Medicare Savings Programs - If you have Medicare, the Medicare Savings Programs may be able to help with Part A and Part B costs. Learn more about the Medicare Savings Programs, if you qualify, and how to apply.
• Medicare Extra Help - This program can help you pay Medicare Part D costs that cover prescription drugs. Find out if you qualify for Extra Help and apply.

Get help paying for prescription drugs

• Contact the pharmaceutical companies that make your prescription drugs or devices. Ask them about low-cost options, samples, or discounts.
• Learn about generic drugs and how they can lower your costs.
• State social services agencies provide direct assistance to people with limited access to health care. They can offer referrals to local health centers and organizations that may be able to help.
• If you are eligible for Medicare, you can get help paying for your prescriptions through Medicare Part D.

Find free or low-cost vaccines

Depending on your income, age, and health insurance coverage, you or your children may be eligible for free vaccinations.

• Use Vaccines.gov to find free COVID-19 vaccinations near you.
• Learn about the Vaccines for Children program (VFC) for free childhood immunizations.
• Search for a local health center that can give your family immunizations at a cost based on your income.