Guides ยท Last reviewed October 14, 2026
How to dispute a bill that's higher than your Good Faith Estimate
If you were uninsured or self-pay and your bill is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can use the federal patient-provider dispute resolution process. You must start within 120 days of the bill date, and the fee is $25.
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Who can use it
- You didn't use insurance for care on or after January 1, 2022, and told the provider in advance.
- You got a Good Faith Estimate before your appointment.
- A provider or facility billed at least $400 more than its estimate.
- Your first bill is dated within the last 120 days.
What it costs
A $25 non-refundable fee. If the decision goes your way, the $25 is subtracted from what you owe.
Your protections during the dispute
While the dispute is open, the provider may not move the bill to collections, must pause collections if it's already there, can't charge late fees, and can't retaliate against you.
How to start
- Gather your Good Faith Estimate and the bill.
- Start the dispute on CMS.gov's "Dispute a medical bill" page.
- Tell the provider in writing that you've started the process.
Common questions
What if I never got a Good Faith Estimate?
For scheduled care, providers generally must give uninsured and self-pay patients one. Contact the No Surprises Help Desk at 1-800-985-3059.
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Sources
Billmira is a self-help information tool, not a law firm, and this isn't legal or medical advice. Rules change and plans differ; check the official sources above and your own documents.