Self-pay
Updated September 30, 2026
Definition
Paying for care yourself instead of through insurance, either because you don't have insurance or you choose not to use it. Self-pay patients can get a good faith estimate.
Self-pay means you pay for care yourself instead of billing insurance. Federal rules use the term for people who have insurance but choose not to use it. That might be because the service isn't covered, or because paying directly costs less. Many providers also call people without insurance self-pay patients.
If you're uninsured or self-pay, you have a right to a good faith estimate. You can get one when you schedule care at least 3 business days ahead, or when you ask. If a provider's bill is at least $400 more than its estimate, you can dispute the bill. You have 120 days from the first bill to start.
For example, say your estimate for a scan was $900 and the bill is $1,350. That's $450 more, so you can start a dispute. You can also ask any provider for a self-pay rate, a prompt-pay discount, or financial assistance. Our guide to good faith estimates explains the dispute steps.
Related terms
Guides that use this term
Sources
- Health insurance terms you should know, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Accessed September 30, 2026.
- Know your medical bill rights when not using insurance, 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.