How to request an itemized medical bill

A summary bill often shows one big total. An itemized bill lists each charge, the date, and usually a billing code. It's the best first step before paying or disputing anything.

How to ask

1. Call the billing number on your statement and ask for an itemized bill with billing codes (often called CPT or HCPCS codes).
2. Follow up in writing so there's a record. Our itemized bill request letter does this.
3. Ask the provider to pause collection activity while you review it.

What to check

• Duplicate charges
• Services or medications you didn't receive
• The correct dates and patient name
• Whether your insurance was billed. Compare against your insurer's Explanation of Benefits (EOB).

If you were uninsured or paid yourself, CMS explains your right to a Good Faith Estimate and what to do if the bill is much higher.

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General information, not legal advice.