Charity care
Updated September 30, 2026
Definition
Free or discounted hospital care for people who qualify, often based on income. Nonprofit hospitals must have a written policy that explains who qualifies and how to apply.
Charity care is free or discounted care for people who qualify. Hospitals may also call it financial assistance. Nonprofit, tax-exempt hospitals must have a written financial assistance policy. It has to explain who qualifies, whether help means free or discounted care, and how to apply.
Each hospital sets its own rules, often based on household income. If you qualify, a nonprofit hospital can't charge you more than its amounts generally billed for emergency or other medically necessary care.
You can usually apply after you get a bill. Nonprofit hospitals must accept applications for at least 240 days after the first bill once you leave the hospital. If you send a complete application, the hospital must pause collection actions while it decides. Ask the billing office for the form, and see our guide to hospital charity care for the steps.
Related terms
Guides that use this term
- GuideHospital charity care: do you qualify and how to applyHospital charity care can lower or cover your bill. See who qualifies, the 2026 poverty guidelines, your rights at nonprofit hospitals, and how to apply.
- GuideMedical bill in collections: your rightsA medical bill in collections isn't the end of the road. Learn your rights, how to dispute the debt, and how to ask for help or a plan you can afford.
Sources
- Financial assistance policies (FAPs), Internal Revenue Service. Accessed September 30, 2026.
- Billing and collections - section 501(r)(6), Internal Revenue Service. Accessed September 30, 2026.
- Limitation on charges - section 501(r)(5), Internal Revenue Service. Accessed September 30, 2026.
This is general information, not legal or medical advice. Rules can depend on your plan and your state. Romi Care isn't an insurer, law firm, collection agency, or government program.