What is the maximum bill amount I can dispute if it exceeds my Good Faith Estimate?
Under the No Surprises Act, if you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than the Good Faith Estimate you were provided, you have the right to dispute that charge. Disputes must be filed within 120 days of the original bill.✓ Accepted answer
Under the No Surprises Act, you have the right to dispute a bill that exceeds your Good Faith Estimate by $400 or more.
- Dispute Threshold: The federal right to dispute applies specifically when the final bill is at least $400 higher than the written Good Faith Estimate provided before your services began. If the difference is less than $400, this specific federal dispute process does not apply.
- Deadline to Act: You must initiate the dispute within 120 days of the date of the original bill. Missing this window can limit your options under the No Surprises Act.
- Where to File: To start the process, contact the federal No Surprises Help Desk at 1-800-985-3059. They provide the necessary forms and guidance for filing your complaint.
- Scope of Coverage: This protection applies to uninsured patients and insured individuals who choose not to use their insurance for that specific service. It ensures that surprise billing does not exceed the transparent estimate you were given.
Keep your original Good Faith Estimate document handy when contacting the Help Desk, as they will require it to verify the discrepancy.
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