My medical bills went to collections… is there anything I can do

Discussion
1

Last year, I lost my job, mostly because of health issues. I had to take a lot of time off for hospital visits and tests—CT scans, ultrasounds, blood work—but they never figured out what was wrong.

I ended up with medical bills I couldn’t pay. One has already gone to collections for $1,203, and I think I have another one for $1,500 that hasn’t yet. I’m willing to pay, but is it too late to dispute some of these charges? And if not, how would I go about it?

2

You might not have to do anything.

This takes effect in March.

3

Harley said:
You might not have to do anything.

This takes effect in March.

Just because it won’t show up on your credit report doesn’t mean they can’t still come after you. They can sue or try to put a lien on your property.

4

Harley said:
You might not have to do anything.

This takes effect in March.

Appreciate the info!

5

Hospitals that are nonprofits often have financial aid programs that help people with low income. Check their website or call their billing department to see if you qualify.

Avoid talking to debt collectors if you can.

6

@Arden
Good idea, I’ll look into that.

7

Sometimes they take legal action, sometimes they don’t.

I had a $15K hospital bill in 2019, plus a $5K one and another for $1K. All went to collections. I ignored them, and nothing ever happened. The statute of limitations has passed now.

Not saying this is the best approach, but just sharing my experience.

8

Best thing to do is ignore their calls. The second you talk to them, you basically confirm the debt is yours, and that can hurt your credit.

I have a $3,200 medical bill that’s been in collections for years. It’s probably changed hands multiple times. I never answer, and it’s never affected my credit score.

I’ll take this one to the grave :joy:

9

@Val
So if I ignore them, they can’t actually do anything to me or my credit?

10

Freddie said:
@Val
So if I ignore them, they can’t actually do anything to me or my credit?

They still have options. They can sue you, and if they win, they could garnish wages or put a lien on your property.

11

@Phoenix
I’m 19 and don’t own anything. How can a nonprofit hospital even try to make a profit off me?

12

Freddie said:
@Val
So if I ignore them, they can’t actually do anything to me or my credit?

If they can’t get in contact with you, they can’t collect from you. Sounds ridiculous, but it’s true.

13

@Val
Alright, I’ll think about that… thanks.