Good faith estimate
Updated September 30, 2026
Definition
A written estimate of expected charges that a provider must give you if you're uninsured or not using insurance. You get it when you schedule care at least 3 business days ahead, or when you ask.
A good faith estimate is a provider's written guess at what your care will cost. Federal rules require it for people who don't have insurance or choose not to use it. It should list expected charges, including facility fees.
You get one when you schedule care at least 3 business days ahead, or any time you ask. You won't get one during emergency care. Each estimate covers only 1 provider or facility, so you may need more than one.
If a provider's bill is at least $400 more than its estimate, you can start a dispute within 120 days of your first bill. For example, say a provider's estimate is $1,200 and its bill is $1,700. The bill is $500 higher, so you can dispute it. Our guide to good faith estimate disputes shows the steps.
Related terms
Guides that use this term
- GuideGood faith estimates and the $400 dispute rulePaying for care yourself? See what a good faith estimate must show, and how to dispute a bill that's $400 or more above it within 120 days of the bill.
- Start hereHow to avoid surprise medical billsMost surprise medical bills can be prevented. Use this routine before care: check networks, get approval and a price estimate, and know your rights.
Sources
- Know your medical bill rights when not using insurance, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Accessed September 30, 2026.
- Health insurance terms you should know, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. 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.