Make sense of a bill or notice

A short call script and the documents to keep nearby.

Start with this

Start by identifying the document. A Medicare Summary Notice or Explanation of Benefits is not a bill. If the document describes a denied claim, follow its appeal instructions and deadline.

Keep these nearby

The bill or notice, its envelope, date of service and any related claim summary. Keep originals and make your notes on a separate sheet.

Your next three steps

Tick a step when you have completed it. These ticks stay only on this page.

Read the heading. An Explanation of Benefits or Medicare Summary Notice is not a bill. Compare it with any provider bill.
Look for a decision, the amount you may owe, and any appeal instructions. Follow the notice-specific deadline; do not wait for annual enrollment.
For a billing mismatch, call the billing office. For a coverage decision, use the appeal instructions and contact listed on the notice; ask your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for help if unclear.

Words you can use

Start the conversation

“Can you explain this amount and the decision behind it? If I disagree, what is my next step and deadline?”

Check the official guidance

Medicare.gov: filing an appeal ↗

Medicare.gov: your Medicare Summary Notice ↗

Source checked September 9, 2026. Educational preparation; the responsible agency or plan must confirm your situation.

Notes for your conversation

Who I spoke with: ____________________ Date: ______________

Answer / next step: ___________________________________________

Follow-up date: ______________________________________________