EOB and hospital bill don't match — what to do

Why discrepancies happen

• Timing — bill sent before insurer processed the claim
• Insurance not applied — payment not received or applied to wrong account
• Billing error — wrong amount or wrong codes
• Secondary insurance — coordination of benefits not applied

Steps to take

1. Compare patient responsibility on EOB with balance on hospital bill
2. Contact billing department and ask them to explain the difference
3. Request itemized bill if you don't have one
4. Contact your insurer if billing department cannot explain
5. Do not pay the higher amount until discrepancy is resolved

General information only. Not legal or medical advice.