Charity Care Eligibility Calculator
Find out if you qualify for free or discounted hospital care. Most nonprofit hospitals are required by law to offer financial assistance — but they rarely tell patients about it.
Educational Estimate: This calculator provides a general estimate based on Federal Poverty Level guidelines. Each hospital has its own financial assistance policy with different income thresholds. Always apply directly with the hospital.
Check Your Eligibility
Enter your household information below. All calculations happen in your browser — nothing is sent to our servers.
Include all income sources: wages, Social Security, disability, etc.
Count everyone who lives in your household and shares expenses.
What is Charity Care?
Charity care (also called financial assistance) is free or discounted medical care provided by nonprofit hospitals. Under Section 501(r) of the Internal Revenue Code, nonprofit hospitals must have a written financial assistance policy and make reasonable efforts to inform patients about it before sending bills to collections.
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility varies by hospital, but most nonprofit hospitals offer free care to patients with incomes below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, and discounted care up to 300-400% FPL. Even if you think you earn too much, it's always worth applying — many hospitals have generous thresholds.