Geisinger Financial Assistance: 100% Free Care at 0-300% FPL + PA Wage Garnishment Ban (2026 Guide)

Flagship & Academic Hospitals

Community & Regional Hospitals

1. Contact a Financial Counselor

Call 800-640-4206 to discuss the denial. Common reasons include income above 300% FPL, missing income documentation, or incomplete application forms.

2. Reapply with Additional Documentation

If your situation has changed or you can provide more complete documentation, submit a new application. Make sure to include all required income verification (2 pay stubs or 1040).

3. Explore Other Options

• 30% self-pay discount: If you are uninsured and above 300% FPL, you should automatically receive a 30% discount. Verify it was applied.
• PA Medicaid: Check eligibility (covers residents up to 138% FPL)
• Payment plans: Geisinger offers flexible financing for remaining balances
• Request an itemized bill: Review all charges for errors or services you did not receive
• PA Health Insurance Exchange: You may qualify for subsidized coverage through Pennie (the PA marketplace)
• Dollar For: A nonprofit that helps patients apply for charity care at hospitals including Geisinger

Who qualifies for Geisinger financial assistance?

Patients with household income at or below 300% FPL (~$47,880/yr single) qualify for 100% free charity care for basic medical services. Uninsured patients above 300% FPL receive an automatic 30% self-pay discount. Both insured and uninsured patients can apply.

What is the difference between charity care and the 30% self-pay discount?

Charity care provides 100% free care for patients at 0-300% FPL and requires an application with income documentation. The 30% self-pay discount is automatic for all uninsured patients above 300% FPL and does not require a separate application. If you are uninsured, you should always check whether you qualify for the full charity care program first.

Can my wages be garnished for a Geisinger bill?

No. Pennsylvania prohibits wage garnishment for medical debt. However, be aware that PA has no state homestead exemption, so a creditor with a court judgment could potentially place a lien on your property. Your wages are safe, but your home equity may not be.

Does Geisinger cover insured patients?

Yes. Both insured and uninsured patients with household income at 0-300% FPL are eligible for 100% charity care. Insured patients can receive help with their out-of-pocket costs after insurance pays its share.

Can I apply after my bill goes to collections?

Yes. As long as you apply within 240 days of your first billing statement, Geisinger must consider your application. Balances placed with collection agencies can be reclassified as charity care if you provide adequate documentation of financial need. Geisinger cannot initiate extraordinary collection actions for at least 120 days from the initial billing date.

What happened with the Risant Health / Kaiser Permanente acquisition?

In March 2024, Geisinger was acquired by Risant Health, a nonprofit created by Kaiser Foundation Hospitals. Geisinger keeps its name, accepts all insurance plans, and maintains its financial assistance policy. Risant has committed $2 billion+ in capital investment through 2028 and $100 million to expand services into new PA communities.

What is Geisinger Health Plan (GHP)?

Geisinger operates its own insurance arm, Geisinger Health Plan, serving 550,000+ members across 41 PA counties. GHP offers Medicaid managed care (GHP Family), Medicare Advantage (Geisinger Gold), marketplace plans, and employer coverage. If you are uninsured, a Geisinger financial counselor can help you explore GHP or marketplace options.