State Medical Billing Laws

Medical billing laws vary considerably by state and govern how long providers can pursue collection of medical debt, when claims must be submitted, and whether balance billing is permitted. This reference covers statute of limitations, Medicaid timely filing deadlines, surprise billing protections, and key regulations for all 50 states.

Statute of Limitations
Time limits for collecting medical debt vary by state from 3-10 years
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Timely Filing
State Medicaid filing deadlines range from 90-365 days from date of service
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Balance Billing
State surprise billing protections and balance billing regulations
50States Covered
25States with Surprise Billing Protection
10 yrsLongest SOL (RI, WV)
3 yrsShortest SOL (AK, DE, LA...)
All StatesWith Surprise Billing ProtectionSOL: 3 YearsSOL: 4 YearsSOL: 5 YearsSOL: 6 YearsSOL: 8+ Years
Showing 50 of 50 states

State billing law information is provided for educational reference. Laws change frequently. Always verify current statutes with your state medical association, legal counsel, or compliance team before making billing decisions.

Federal No Surprises Act (Effective January 2022)

In addition to state surprise billing laws, the federal No Surprises Act provides nationwide protections for patients receiving out-of-network emergency care and certain scheduled services at in-network facilities. The Act applies to all states and creates a federal floor for patient protections, meaning patients pay no more than in-network cost-sharing amounts for covered services.

Emergency Care
All out-of-network emergency services are covered at in-network cost-sharing rates regardless of state law.
Scheduled Services
Out-of-network providers at in-network facilities must give 72-hour notice and obtain written consent.
IDR Process
Disputed payments go through federal Independent Dispute Resolution (IDR) arbitration process.

Related Medical Billing Resources

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