Invoices, receipts, and payments

Invoice, receipt, or statement?

These documents serve different purposes. Understanding the difference can help you know whether payment is being requested, confirmed, or summarized.

What should the charge help explain?

The exact format can differ between clinics, but a clear billing document may include:

• The clinic or physician issuing the charge.
• The patient or organization responsible for payment.
• The invoice or document date.
• A clear description of the service or request.
• The date the service or work was completed, where applicable.
• The amount charged and any applicable tax.
• Payments, adjustments, or the remaining balance.
• Payment terms and clinic contact information for questions.

Before you pay

Whenever possible, the clinic should explain an uninsured-service fee before the work is completed. Ask what service or request the fee relates to, who is responsible for payment, and what amount is expected.

For third-party work, the patient or the requesting organization may be responsible for payment depending on the circumstances. Confirm the payer before the clinic begins the work whenever possible.

Some services may be subject to HST while others may be exempt. The answer depends on the nature and purpose of the service and applicable tax rules. Ask the clinic whether tax is included or added to the amount shown.

After payment

Ask for a receipt after payment and keep it with your records. The receipt should allow you to connect the payment to the related invoice or service.

A receipt confirms payment to the clinic. It does not by itself determine whether the expense will be reimbursed by an insurer, benefit plan, employer, government program, or another organization.

If a charge is unclear or payment is difficult

Contact the clinic promptly if you do not understand a charge. Ask for an explanation of the service, the amount, the payer, and any applicable tax or payment terms.

If you believe the invoice contains an error, explain the concern and ask the clinic to review the account. Keep copies of relevant invoices, receipts, statements, and communications.

If you are concerned about your ability to pay, ask what options may be available. Depending on the circumstances, the clinic may consider flexibility, a payment arrangement, a reduction, or a waiver.

Do not avoid necessary care

An outstanding uninsured-service balance should not cause a patient to avoid seeking medically necessary care. Questions about an account and questions about ongoing medical care should be discussed directly with the clinic.

Questions to ask your clinic

Your clinic is the best source of information about a particular invoice, payment, receipt, or account balance.

• What service or request does this charge relate to?
• Is the patient or a third party responsible for payment?
• Was the fee communicated before the work was completed?
• What amount is being charged?
• Does the amount include any applicable tax?
• When is payment due?
• What payment methods does the clinic accept?
• Will a receipt be provided after payment?
• Who should I contact if I have a concern or difficulty paying?

Important note

ClinicFees.ca provides general education only. It does not determine whether a specific fee, invoice, tax, payment term, adjustment, waiver, refund, or outstanding balance is permitted, accurate, reasonable, payable, or collectible. Your clinic's own policy and applicable Ontario requirements apply.