How to dispute a medical bill in Massachusetts

Federal rights that apply in Massachusetts

• No Surprises Act: uninsured or self-pay patients billed $400+ over their Good Faith Estimate can start a patient-provider dispute within 120 days of the bill (cms.gov/nosurprises).
• Charity care: nonprofit hospitals must publish a Financial Assistance Policy and accept applications for at least 240 days after the first post-discharge bill (IRS 501(r)(6)). Dollar For helps patients apply for free.
• Itemized bill: you can ask any provider for an itemized bill with billing codes before paying. Our free letter makes the request.
• Debt collection: you can demand validation of a debt from a collector (FDCPA, 15 U.S.C. 1692g).
• 2026 poverty guideline (48 states + DC): $15,960 for 1 person, +$5,680 per additional person (HHS).