What to know if you can’t pay your medical bill in NYC:
- In NYC, regardless of immigration status, you have the right to access affordable or free health coverage to help pay medical bills.
- All hospitals in New York State must offer Charity Care (financial assistance) to low-income patients. Ask about it if you can’t pay your bill.
- Financial counselors and health care navigators are free to help you enroll in insurance or check if you qualify for financial assistance.
- If you already have hospital debt, you may still be able to negotiate payment plans or request a reduced amount.
Navigating New York City’s healthcare system can be overwhelming. If you have a medical bill that you can’t afford, know that there is help available.
If you’re new to the city, regardless of your country of origin or immigration status, you have the right to access affordable or even free healthcare coverage that will help pay your medical bills.
Enrolling in a health insurance plan should be one of your first steps you take when settling in NYC. However, if you don’t have insurance yet and need to visit the doctor, it’s important to know that hospitals cannot demand immediate payment when you leave. You have the right to explore health coverage options first.
Also Read: How to Cover Emergency Medical Care in NYC if You’re Uninsured
What should I do if I have hospital debt I can’t afford?
All hospitals in New York State are required to offer Charity Care, a financial assistance program that helps low-income patients cover medical costs, no matter their immigration status.
Keep in mind though, that even with Charity Care, private hospital bills may still be higher than those at public hospitals.
If you receive a hospital bill you can’t afford, ask about the hospital’s Charity Care program and how to apply. You can do it anytime: once you arrive, after receiving care or when you get the bill. Every hospital’s financial assistance policy is different, so request a copy of the specific policy where you received care. However, there are some basic elements all hospitals must offer, which we explain below.
What steps should I take to get help with paying my medical bill?
If you already have health insurance you’re already in a strong position. Health insurance makes it easier and cheaper to see a doctor, meaning that you’re able to seek out preventative care and treat minor issues before they become major ones. If you get sick or injured, your insurance may cover significant medical costs, protecting you from having to pay large bills.
If you don’t have health insurance yet: Ask to speak with a financial counselor at NYC Health + Hospitals. They can help you enroll in a free or low-cost health insurance plan, if you qualify.
You can also contact a Health Care Navigator — trained professionals who can walk you through your options and help with enrollment. Their assistance is free and confidential, and you should never be asked to pay for information or for help signing up for insurance.
For more help, visit: nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call: 1-855-355-5777.
If you don’t qualify for a specific health insurance, can’t afford a plan, or don’t have money to pay for care, you may still be eligible for financial assistance.
Who qualifies for financial assistance with medical bills?
You may be eligible for help with medical bills if:
- Your household income is below 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (In 2025, that’s $62,600 for one person or $128,600 for a family of four)
- You live in the New York State and one or more of the following applies to you:
- You don’t have health insurance
- You do have insurance, but out-of-pocket medical costs exceed 10% of your household’s pre-tax income
- Your insurance ran out before your treatment was complete
If you qualify for hospital financial assistance:
- The hospital will apply a sliding scale discount based on your income
- The hospital must also offer affordable payment plans, with monthly payments capped at 5% of your household income
Remember: Your immigration status is not a factor in this process and hospitals cannot ask about it when you apply.
Can I negotiate my medical debt?
If you’ve confirmed that you’re responsible for a medical bill, you may still be able to negotiate the amount you owe. Many non-hospital providers offer financial assistance or are open to setting up payment plans. Download a step-by-step guide to negotiating medical debt here.
Community Health Advocates (CHA) is an organization with the mission to help New Yorkers navigate the complex healthcare system. Here are a few of their tips and reminders:
- Medical debt cannot be reported on your credit report in New York State
- If you’re being sued for a medical bill, use this guide to defend yourself
- Since November 2022, if a court rules against you in a medical debt lawsuit, your wages cannot be garnished and the court cannot place a lien on your home.
Need help with medical bills?
Contact Community Health Advocates at 1-888-614-5400 or find a local advocate here.
