US Legal Forms
Legal Resources
Questions & Answers
Debts and Credit
If you have been paying on medical bills can they still be sent to collections?

If you have been paying on medical bills can they still be sent to collections?

Full question:

If you have outstanding medical bills you have been paying, and the creditor has been accepting the payment for several months, can they turn around and send them(it) to collections?

Category: Debts and Credit
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Wisconsin

Answer:

Yes, unless you have a contract stating that they won't sue.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What happens if you don't pay medical bills under $500?

If you don't pay medical bills under $500, the creditor may still send the bill to collections. While smaller amounts might not be pursued as aggressively, the creditor retains the right to take action. This could include reporting the debt to credit bureaus, which may impact your credit score. It's important to communicate with the creditor to explore payment options or negotiate a settlement.

Can collections come after you for medical bills?

Yes, collections can come after you for medical bills. If you have unpaid medical debts, creditors can transfer the account to a collections agency. This can happen regardless of any payments you have made previously. Once in collections, you may receive calls or letters demanding payment, and the debt may be reported to credit bureaus.

What happens if a medical bill goes to collections?

If a medical bill goes to collections, the collections agency will attempt to collect the debt from you. This may involve phone calls, letters, or even legal action. Additionally, the debt may be reported to credit bureaus, potentially lowering your credit score. It's advisable to address the bill promptly, either by paying it or negotiating a payment plan with the collections agency.