Good Faith Estimate
You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.
- You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription medications, equipment, and hospital fees.
- Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your healthcare provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.
- If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.
- Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate.
For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises.
Why This Estimate Is Important
A Good Faith Estimate helps you understand the expected cost of non-emergency medical services before your appointment. It gives you a chance to review the charges and ask questions before receiving care.
Keep a copy of the estimate with your records. You may need it later when reviewing your bill.
What the Estimate May Include
The estimate may list the expected charges for the services discussed with your health care provider. It may also include information about the provider or facility involved in your care.
The details included will depend on the services being planned and the information available when the estimate is prepared.
Review the Estimate Before Your Visit
Check that the services listed on the estimate match what you discussed with the clinic. Contact the clinic before your appointment if you have questions about any item or charge.
Save copies of the estimate, appointment details, and related billing documents for your records.
Additional Information
You may contact the clinic with questions about the information shown on your Good Faith Estimate.