Im a college student and i have thousands in hospital bills , can theybe written off?

Question

I didnt have any insurance and the gunshot wound in my hand was serious, so I had to go the emergency room.

Answer 1

You being a college student will deserve no special tax treatment in this situation. The hospital bills can be written off in schedule A itemized deductions, in the same manner any other tax payer would.

Answer 2

you need to either make a deal with the hospital or file for bankruptcy

of course, maybe you have a lawsuit against the person who shot you [if it wasn't self-inflicted] and, even if you win collecting a judgment can be very difficult. [Afaik, O J Simpson hasn't paid a dime yet.]

personally, i'd try making a deal with the hospital. 1st, ask that the bill be reduced to what it would be if you had the most common insurance plan and then try to make a payments deal. One day you'll have a job [we hope] and thus will be able to make payments.

Or one day, you'll collect on your lawsuit and then be able to pay.

which probably beats filing for bankruptcy ... and that's certainly a bargaining card you can use when talking with the hospital.

GL

Answer 3

Likely not - they'll likely put it through collections and wait until you graduate and get a job, then attach a paycheck.

You've got potential earnings, you morally owe for services rendered, they likely won't just "write this off".

You CAN call the billing office, see if you can negotiate a lower cash price with a payment plan. But if you don't stick to your end of the deal, they don't have to stick to their end, and they can still go after you for the whole thing.

Answer 4

I doubt they'd write it off, but call the hospital and ask for the social workers.... Sometimes there's charities that will fork over a chunk of the bill. Otherwise, send 'em $10 a month forever - that will keep you out of collections and not send your credit rating down the toilet.

Answer 5

You can sue the person who shot your hand. Make sure you report the incident to the police department because you will need that to prove the liability of the person you are suing.

Answer 6

yes, you can write off all medical bills and even copays (if you were to have insurance) along w/ any taxes you paid throughout the year when making purchases, just in case you didn't know.

Answer 7

yes, if you had to go to the emergency room, it may very well be reduced or even written off. you will have to show your financial status to them such as bank account, pay stubs, etc.