don't let medical bills ruin your credit

When facing medical billing issues in California, know your rights! California law (AB 1020) prohibits reporting medical debts under $500 to credit agencies, and all medical debt is granted a 180-day grace period before reporting. Before negotiating with collectors, document everything. Get itemized bills, check for errors, and write a formal dispute letter to both the hospital and collection agency detailing the double-billing issue. Keep communications in writing and request debt validation. California residents have stronger medical debt protections than most states - use them! #MedicalDebtRights #CaliforniaConsumerProtection #DebtNegotiation #HealthcareBilling