Can hospital bills (unpaid) hurt your credit?

Answer 1

Yes because they will eventually turn to collections. If you can, make small payments of what you can afford towards the bill. By law, the hopsital is not allowed to turn you over to a collection agency as long as you are making payments, regardless if it's not the full amount.

Answer 2

Yes, it hurt mine. Had gallbladder surgery without insurance. Paid as best I could for a long time then a long period w/out work left me unable to pay so the hospital wrote off most of it (I guess a a charitable thing) but the surgeon and I think the anesthesiologist both came after me for it. Finally had to declare bankruptcy. Didn't want to do it but couldn't satisfy with payments anymore, "too long". See if you can work out something with the hospital. Usually if they are willing you can work it out to make payments just stay on top of it or they'll boot it to a creditor asap. Depending upon how the hospital reports it it could show as a total outstanding debt on your credit record until the entire amount is paid or could show as something like a car or house payment showing that you pay on time and that the $ is decreasing over time.

Answer 3

Of course they will. They are just like any other unpaid bill. They can send you to collections, take you to court and get judgments against you same as any other creditor.

Most hospitals will work with you and set up some kind of pay plan. Call them and see what you can work out.

Answer 4

YES!!! You need to call the hospital and set up a payment plan (usually $10-$25/month depending on your income). DO NOT Assume that just because you're paying "something" on it that it will keep you clear. It won't! Unless you have a set-up payment plan, the hospital will demand full payment or they turn it over to a collection agency.

Answer 5

Of course. Any outstanding bill or loan can adversely affect your credit. Some hospitals will take payments, and then keep it off of your credit report.

Talk to them, and explain your situation.

Good Luck!!

Answer 6

these days with modern computers any unpaid bill even a parking ticket has a negitive effect on your credit rating

Answer 7

Yes, if they're turned over to a collection agency, it'll show up as a collection account on your credit. And if they get a judgement against you for the amount, then it's even worse for your credit.

Answer 8

any unpaid bill can hurt your credit in one way or another

Answer 9

yes

Answer 10

yes