I can't pay my medical bills
Medical and dental bills can mount up fast — there are ways to ease the pressure.
This guide helps you
- Understand your options with medical bills
- Know that you can ask providers for help
- Explore payment plans and hardship
- Look into available concessions or support
- Find free financial counselling
5 min
You're not alone
Health costs often arrive at the worst possible time, when you may already be unwell or caring for someone. If you can't pay a medical or dental bill, you're far from alone, and there are practical ways to manage it.
This is general information, not financial advice. A free financial counsellor can help you work through medical debts — National Debt Helpline 1800 007 007.
Your first steps
Health providers often have more flexibility than people expect:
- Contact the provider's accounts team and explain you're having trouble paying.
- Ask about a payment plan to spread the cost over time.
- Ask whether any hardship help is available.
Step by step
- Check the bill carefully to make sure it's correct and any rebates have been applied.
- Ask for a payment plan or hardship arrangement that fits your budget.
- Explore other support, such as concessions, social work services at the hospital, or charitable assistance.
- Get free financial counselling if you have several bills or debts.
You can find support services in our directory of bodies.
Good to know
Many hospitals and clinics have social workers or hardship processes who can help, so it's always worth asking. A free financial counsellor can help you prioritise medical bills alongside other debts. If your health worries and money worries are weighing on you, Lifeline 13 11 14 and Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 are there.
Key takeaways
- Health providers often offer payment plans or hardship help — just ask
- Check bills are correct and that rebates have been applied
- Free financial counsellors can help you prioritise on 1800 007 007
Frequently asked questions
Can I pay a medical bill in instalments?
Often, yes. Many hospitals, clinics and dentists offer payment plans. Contact their accounts team, explain your situation and ask what arrangements they can offer.
Is there support at hospitals for people who can't pay?
Frequently, yes. Many hospitals have social workers or hardship processes. Ask the provider what support is available, and a free financial counsellor can help you explore other options.
Should I check the bill before paying?
Yes. Make sure the charges are correct and any rebates have been applied. If something looks wrong, query it. A financial counsellor can help if you're unsure how to handle it.
This is general information, not legal or financial advice. Your situation is unique and rules can vary by state and over time — for advice on your circumstances, speak to a free financial counsellor (National Debt Helpline 1800 007 007) or get legal help.
Know your options, know your rights
A free, plain-English guide to dealing with debt in Australia — and the people who can help.