Guides ยท Last reviewed October 14, 2026
Surprise medical bills and the No Surprises Act
If you have insurance, the federal No Surprises Act generally limits what you owe to your in-network cost-sharing for emergency care, air ambulance services, and many out-of-network providers at in-network hospitals and surgery centers.
Check your bill in 3 minutes
Free, private, no sign-up. See your options, deadlines, and a ready-to-send letter.
What's covered
- Emergency care, even at an out-of-network ER.
- Out-of-network providers at in-network facilities, such as an anesthesiologist or radiologist you didn't choose.
- Air ambulance services.
What's not covered
- Ground ambulance bills (some states have their own protections).
- Non-emergency care where you signed a valid notice-and-consent form to waive your protections. This waiver isn't allowed for emergency care.
What to do
- Compare the bill with your insurer's Explanation of Benefits (EOB). You should owe only the patient responsibility on the EOB.
- Don't pay the extra balance. Write to the provider asking for a corrected bill.
- Call the No Surprises Help Desk at 1-800-985-3059 or file a complaint at CMS.gov.
Uninsured or paying yourself?
Different protections apply. See our Good Faith Estimate dispute guide.
Common questions
Do I have to pay a surprise out-of-network bill?
If the No Surprises Act applies, you generally only owe your in-network cost-sharing. Don't pay the extra amount while you dispute it.
Who do I call about a surprise bill?
The federal No Surprises Help Desk at 1-800-985-3059.
Check your bill in 3 minutes
Free, private, no sign-up. See your options, deadlines, and a ready-to-send letter.
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.