How To Get Out Of Medical Debt
Debt is a scary thing. Medical debt is an even scarier thing. If you’re struggling to pay your medical bills,don’t worry – you’re not alone. Millions of Americans are in the same boat. This guide will show you how to get out of medical debt and regain control of your finances. Keep reading for tips on how to negotiate with creditors,create a budget,and get financial assistance. Time to take back control!
1. Negotiate With Creditors
There are a few ways you can try and negotiate with the creditor:
a. Send a letter by certified mail
b. Call to discuss your options and offer an alternate solution
c. Contact them via email,or send a fax or text message (if it’s an option) The best thing about negotiating is that there is no cost involved – other than maybe time! Remember,creditors want their money as much as you want to not have to pay the debt. Be polite,offer a reasonable alternative repayment plan,but don’t give up any more of your financial information than necessary. And remember: By law,they cannot charge interest during the payment period of a settlement offer if one is accepted.
2. Create A Budget
Creating a budget is the best way to ensure that you are paying your bills on time,which will help your credit score. To create a budget simply list all of your monthly expenses in one column and all of your income in another. Then,compare the two to see if you’re spending more than you make in a month – or vice versa! If there’s either too much income compared to expenses OR not enough income for expenses,then it may be time to make some serious changes – say goodbye to cable/unnecessary restaurant trips/etc…
3. Get Assistance From
The State And Other Charitable Organizations There are various government programs out there that are aimed at helping people with medical debt get back on track financially. These programs are funded either by the government or through charitable organizations. They typically operate on a first come first serve basis and sometimes require an application process before you can receive the help you need. Examples of such programs include:
-The State Medicaid Program: Depending on your state,most people will qualify for some form of coverage from their state’s Medicaid program. The level of assistance provided varies from plan to plan but most include prescription drug coverage as well as certain types of dental care and health care that don’t involve hospitalization. In most cases,the only requirements are that applicants make a certain amount per month and have a qualifying household size.
-Charitable Organizations: There are numerous charitable organizations out there with one goal in mind: helping people with medical debt! While most of these organizations are funded by churches or other religious/spiritual institutions,that doesn’t mean that they’re not legitimate. They typically assist regardless of one’s religion although certain requirements may need to be met to qualify for their services.
4. File For Bankruptcy
If none of the above options work,your next best option is to declare bankruptcy. This will stay on your credit report for up to ten years and can be disheartening at first,but it’s better than not being able to pay any bills whatsoever.
5. If Medical Debt Is The Only Thing Holding You Back From Getting A Loan,Then It May Be Worthwhile To Pay Off The Medical Bills First
If you’re having trouble getting approved for a small loan (e.g $5,000 or less) and can’t get your hands on it too,say,buy a car that has all of the features you want then consider paying off your medical debts first. Once paid off,go to the bank with proof of the paid bills and ask them if they would reconsider approving you now that your debts are gone. Keep in mind though that this option is only possible if your medical debt is the only thing holding you back from getting said loan. If this sounds like something you might be interested in,talk to your medical provider/creditors and ask for a discount on the debt if you pay it off in full. If they agree to these terms,go ahead and set up a payment plan with which you can pay off said bills within a year or two.