No Surprises Act
Your Right to Receive a Good Faith Estimate
You have the right to know what your care is expected to cost before you begin.
Last updated September 2026
Your Right to an Estimate
Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don't have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the expected charges for medical items and services. You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.
When You Will Receive It
Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item if it is scheduled at least 3 business days in advance, and at least 3 business days before if it is scheduled at least 10 business days in advance.
You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.
How This Works at Spero Counseling
Your session fee is confirmed with you on your free consultation call, before anything is scheduled or charged, and your written Good Faith Estimate follows from that. You can ask for one at any time through the Work With Me page. See Rates and Payment for how payment works.
If Your Bill Is Higher
If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill. You must start the dispute process within 120 calendar days of the date on the original bill.
Keep a Copy
Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate. You may need it if you dispute a bill.
More Information
For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 1-800-985-3059.
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