Guides · Last reviewed October 20, 2026
Ascension financial assistance (charity care): who qualifies in 2026
Ascension's financial assistance policy can wipe out 100% of a qualifying hospital bill if your household income is at or below 250% of the federal poverty level (about $82,500 for a family of four in 2026), with sliding-scale discounts up to 400%. You generally have 240 days from your first bill to apply — and you don't have to be uninsured.
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Who qualifies
- Free care (100% off): household income at or below 250% of the federal poverty level — roughly $82,500 for a family of four in 2026.
- Discounted care: a sliding-scale discount for income between 250% and 400% (about $132,000 for a family of four).
- You do not have to be uninsured. In some markets a small copay may still apply (for example, around $100 per inpatient or emergency visit and $25 per outpatient visit).
Each Ascension state market publishes its own Financial Assistance Policy document and application. Income thresholds are generally consistent across markets, but some local rules differ — always check the policy for your specific hospital.
Your protections under federal law
Ascension hospitals are nonprofit, so federal 501(r) rules apply:
- You get at least 240 days from your first bill after discharge to apply.
- The hospital must wait at least 120 days after the first bill before taking "extraordinary collection actions" (like sending you to collections).
- If you qualify, you can't be charged more than the amount generally billed (AGB) to insured patients.
How to apply
- Go to Ascension's financial assistance page and select your state and facility.
- Download the Financial Assistance Application for your hospital.
- Complete it and attach the documents it asks for (such as pay stubs, a tax return, or a benefits letter).
- Submit it to the facility by the method listed, and keep a copy.
For the general steps that apply at any nonprofit hospital, see our hospital financial assistance guide.
Common questions
Do I have to be uninsured to get Ascension financial assistance?
No. Ascension's policy can cover insured patients too. Free care is generally available at or below 250% of the federal poverty level, with sliding-scale discounts up to 400%.
How long do I have to apply for Ascension financial assistance?
Nonprofit hospitals must give you at least 240 days from your first post-discharge bill to apply. Apply as early as you can.
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Sources
- Ascension: Financial assistance (select your state and facility)
- IRS: Billing and collections — Section 501(r)(6)
Billmira is a self-help information tool, not a law firm, and this isn't legal or medical advice. Billmira is not affiliated with or endorsed by Ascension. Policies vary by facility and change over time; check the official policy for your hospital.