The healthcare system in the U.S. is many things, but transparent isn’t one of them.
You can’t shop around mid-appendicitis, and most of us only find out what something costs after we get the bill.
📣 But here’s the good news: you have more power than you think.
We just sat down with Jared Walker, founder of Dollar For (aka the guy who’s helped thousands crush medical debt), on our YouTube channel to break it all down.
And if you’re short on time, here’s the lightning round of what you need to know.
🏥 Top Three Ways to Save on Medical Bills
1. Ask for an itemized bill (even if you have insurance). Hospitals don’t always give you the breakdown upfront. And that “miscellaneous charge”? It might include things like $30 for tissues or meds you didn’t actually take.
Ask for an itemized bill and scan it like it’s a Where’s Waldo of overcharges.
⚠️ Common errors: duplicate charges, services never rendered, or stuff your insurance already paid for.
2. Apply for financial assistance (yes, even if you’re insured). This one’s underrated. Most hospitals have financial assistance programs you don’t have to be broke to qualify for.
Income-based sliding scales, charity care, hardship discounts—it’s all there. Just ask for the application or look for it on their website. (They probably won’t advertise it, but they do have it.)
3. Negotiate your bill (especially if you’re paying cash). If you’re paying out-of-pocket or have a high-deductible plan, use that to your advantage.
Call the billing department and say, “I’d like to settle this in full. Can you offer a discount?” Even 10–30% off is possible. Be kind and persistent!
💡Want to be just as savvy with your time as you are with your money?
You’ll love The Donut.
They read all the headlines so you don’t have to. The Donut serves up the day’s biggest stories in a way that’s actually fun to read.
Think: what if news didn’t make you feel like you just walked into a yelling match? It’s free, and over 175,000 people are already in on it.
P.S. The DIY bill-fighting energy doesn’t have to stop here.
If you’re ready to get just as hands-on with your everyday money, our Finance Planner is 50% off right now. It helps you organize, reflect, and move forward—without needing to be a spreadsheet wizard. SUMMER50 will get 50% off through July 31st!
Keep fighting the good fight!
Misti
**Means this is a sponsored or affiliate section. We may earn a small fee or commission when you choose to try one of our sponsor or affiliate partners. But opinions are still 1000% our own.
