If I spent the money the insurance sent me for the doctor bill instead?

Question

In the state of California, what law is there that I can get in trouble with if I spent the money my insurance sent me to pay the doctor instead of paying him?

Answer 1

They paid you, now you pay the doctor.  It's as simple as that.

Answer 2

Not knowing who the "him" is, you won't get into any trouble at all.

As long as when "he" demands you pay "him", you do.  Or, "he" will take you to court, garnish your wages, seize your assets, etc, until "he" gets paid.

Answer 3

Well, of course you can get in financial trouble...unless you make the payment in full to the doctor when he requests the money from you.

Here's the problem you'll find yourself in...the doctor will know that you got payment from the insurer and he'll know exactly how much you received.

So, if the doctor sends you a bill and you don't pay up, he'll know that you stole the money.  Most doctor's offices aren't going to look too kindly on that.  And they can take you to court for the money, and have your wages garnished if you don't comply.

If you haven't already spent the money...don't do it!  Not worth it.

If you have spent the money...you'll have to find a way to come up with the cash quick when the doctor starts billing you, or you'll find yourself in court.

Answer 4

When you went to "him" for treatment - he had you fill out a bunch of forms and sign them. One of those - guarantees "him" payment.

Like any other person that provides you a service - he can - and will sue you - garnish your wages, etc.  And, he will refuse to treat you or your family in the future.

I suggest you pay "him".

Answer 5

yes. Theft of services is punishable by law. You entered into a business relationship with the doctor, by being his patient. That means there's a binding agreement that he get paid, by you or your insurance, for services rendered. Its kinda like writing a hot check... He can sue you for it. You can lose your insurance. In Texas. He can garnish your wages if its enough money. You should not have spent money. Even if the insurance company made a mistake, you are still liable for paying the doctor.

Answer 6

you could get in trouble for not paying the DR period. Not for spending the money the  insurance company. It up to you how to use that money, Your kinda crazy though for not payong the DR with that money because now you'll have to get the money somewhere else.

Answer 7

Now you just have to come up with the money to pay the doctor.  In the grand scheme of things that wasn't such a great idea.