Assignment of benefits

Assignment of benefits means authorizing benefit payments to go directly to the dentist. You usually sign a form, often when you fill out the claim or intake paperwork. The plan then sends its payment to the dental office, and you owe the rest of the bill.

Without an assignment, the plan may send payment to you, and you pay the office. Some people prefer this, and it is common with an indemnity plan. The ADA reports that 23 states have passed laws aimed at making sure plans honor assignment. Plan rules vary.

You are still responsible for amounts the plan does not pay, such as your deductible or coinsurance. See insurance claim and EOB. The insurance and financing page has this office's information.