10 Industries That Are Double Billing You — How You Can Avoid Paying So Much

July 9, 2024 DINARRECAPS8

J. Arky Tue, July 9, 2024 GOBankingRates

When was the last time you took a good look at your bill to make sure that what you were charged for is the correct amount? You might want to start double-checking the fine print and doing the math yourself since several industries are getting called out for double billing customers.

You might be able to negotiate to get the charges reversed or a partial refund, but at the end of the day, that’s time and money down the drain.

How can you avoid paying so much and not get double billed? It all starts with knowing which industries are notorious for charging customers twice. Here are the ones to be on high alert for so you do not get billed twice over.

Telecommunications

Telecom providers are notorious for hidden fees and erroneous charges, according to David L. Blain, CFA and CEO at BlueSky Wealth Advisors.

“As someone who has audited telecom bills for over 20 years, I’ve found erroneous charges at nearly every company,” said Dylan Cleppe of OneStop Northwest LLC. “Carefully scrutinize your bill each month and question any charge that seems off. Negotiate the best rate upfront, then lock in that rate with a multi-year contract.”

“Carefully review your bills each month for any unwarranted additions like device insurance or data overage fees,” echoed Blain. “Don’t be afraid to call and dispute incorrect charges.”

Insurance

Ben Klesinger, co-founder and CEO of Reliant Insurance Group and Helping Hand Financial, said, “Insurance companies frequently tack on extra fees when policies renew.

“Always ask for an itemized renewal notice and question any charge not clearly tied to your coverage limits or payouts last year. Don’t be afraid to shop [around with] other companies.”

Healthcare

“Healthcare providers may charge separately for facility fees, physician fees and anesthesia — often from different billing groups,” Blain said.

“Healthcare is an industry designed to bill as much as insurers will cover,” Cleppe agreed. “Question costs that seem disproportionate to the services rendered. Check that each provider who treated you is in your insurance network. Out-of-network doctors and facilities will balance the difference [of the bill for you] between their charge and your insurer’s allowed amount.”

Blain advised customers to request “an itemized bill to ensure you’re only paying for services actually received. Ask about insurance network participation for all providers before receiving treatment.”

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