Skip Navigation
Go to the Medicare.gov home page
You are here: Home>Medicare Basics>Understanding Claims

Understanding Claims

The links below can help you better understand Medicare claims.

Medicare Summary Notice (MSN)

A MSN shows all the services or supplies that were billed to Medicare during each 3-month period, what Medicare paid, and what you may owe the provider. The MSN is not a bill.

Learn how to read a MSN here.

How to File a Claim

If you're in Original Medicare, doctors and suppliers are required by law to file Medicare claims for covered services and supplies you get. You shouldn’t need to file any Medicare claims yourself.

For more information on filing a Medicare claim, including how to file a claim yourself, click here.

Medicare Appeals & Grievances

You have the right to appeal any decision about your Medicare services. This is true whether you're in Original Medicare, a Medicare Advantage plan, or a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. If Medicare doesn't pay for an item or service you got, or if you aren't given an item or service you think you should get, you can appeal.

Learn more about your Medicare appeals rights here.

55