Use this list to check your medical bills for mistakes before you pay them. It helps you compare your bill to your insurance statement.

Gather Your Documents

Get the bill from the doctor or hospital.
Find your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your insurance.
Have your health insurance card ready.
Keep a notebook for writing down dates and notes.
Get a copy of your medical record if you need it.

Compare the Bill to Your EOB

Make sure your name and date of birth are right.
Check that the date of service matches when you went to the doctor.
Look at the services listed on both papers to make sure they match.
Check if the amount you owe on the bill matches the amount on the EOB.
See if your insurance paid their share.

Look for Common Mistakes

Make sure you were not charged twice for the same thing.
Check that you actually got the treatments listed on the bill.
Look for charges for medicines you did not take.
Check if a canceled test is still on the bill.
Make sure out-of-network bills follow the No Surprises Act rules if it was an emergency.

Next Steps if You Find an Error

Call the billing department to ask about the mistake.
Write down the name of the person you talk to and the date.
Ask your insurance company to look at the claim again if needed.
Ask the hospital if you qualify for IRS 501(r) charity care if you cannot pay.
Request an itemized bill if the charges are not clear.

Tip: Always verify with your insurance company to see what your plan covers before you pay a large medical bill.

This checklist is educational information only. It is not medical, legal, or financial advice. Confirm details with your insurer, provider, or an official government source.

Medical Bill Review Checklist

Gather Your Documents

Compare the Bill to Your EOB

Look for Common Mistakes

Next Steps if You Find an Error