What happens if you can't afford to pay a bill at the time of service?

Question

Lately I've been scheduling a lot of appointments, dentist appointments, vet appointments, etc. I've noticed that almost all offices have a disclaimer that payment is due at the time of service.

Now, obviously I intend to pay my bills right there. But I'm curious what would happen if someone didn't? Say an appointment ended up being more expensive than they were originally quoted or something.

, · Answer

You should discuss your financial status before making an appointment.   Theoretically, of course.

David S · Answer

They'd expect you to complete the transaction using a credit card. Money on the books costs them money, so they'd rather let you carry the debt.

Maxi · Answer

You would use your credit card or if you didn't pay within x amount of days or make arrangements to pay over time and stick to that arrangement they would file in small claims court for the debt owed , you get a CCJ aginst you and that woud wreck your credit and you still owe the money

Anonymous · Answer

Some places offer payment plans. It really is better to discuss the situation with them rather than just not pay on time. I can't say what happens if you're late paying.

DJC · Answer

I've actually had this happen before. Obviously, medical professionals prefer to be paid on the spot, but they can't turn you away for lack of payment, so they bill you. They don't advertise that they bill you because they want you to pay before receiving treatment, but again, they can't deny you, so they send you a bill and you pay after your treatment.

And if you don't pay before OR after your treatment, they send the debt collectors after you. I've had this happen as well.

And if you don't pay before OR after your treatment, they send the debt collectors after you.  I've had this happen as well.

What happens if you can't afford to pay a bill at the time of service?

5 Answers