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Eligibility Check
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Do you qualify for hospital charity care?
IRS law requires nonprofit hospitals to forgive or reduce bills for patients who can't afford them. Millions qualify every year and never apply. This takes 60 seconds.
Your income:
2025 Federal Poverty Level for your household:
Your income as % of FPL:
0% FPL200%400%+
Full forgiveness
Partial discount
Above threshold
Even if you're above the typical threshold, applying is free and worth it.
How does hospital charity care work?
- IRS Section 501(r) requires nonprofit hospitals to offer Financial Assistance Programs (FAPs) to keep their tax-exempt status. It's federal law, not optional charity.
- Eligibility is based on household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Most programs cover patients up to 200–400% of FPL.
- You can apply retroactively — even after a bill has gone to collections.
- The hospital must suspend collection activity while your application is under review.
BillKarma is not a law firm. Eligibility estimates are based on published 2025 federal poverty guidelines. Hospital thresholds vary.