What is hospital charity care?
Last updated September 3, 2026.
Charity care is free or discounted hospital care for income-qualifying patients - and every nonprofit hospital must offer it, because section 501(r)(4) of the tax code requires a written financial assistance policy as a condition of tax-exempt status. Policies spell out who qualifies (typically by income vs the federal poverty level: free below one line, sliding discounts above), what is covered, and how to apply. USA.gov confirms it can cover remaining costs even after insurance or Medicaid pay - it is for the underinsured too. To get it: ask the billing office for the financial assistance application (they must provide it), bring income proof, and know it often works retroactively on bills already in hand. The expensive mistake: paying by credit card or signing a payment plan before asking. Pymander is a free AI doctor, 24/7 by text, and can help you prepare the ask.
What to do
- Ask the billing office for the FAP application: they are required to have one.
- Bring income proof: pay stubs or a tax return.
- Existing bill? Still ask: assistance often applies retroactively.
- Ask before paying or signing plans: charity care beats installments.
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