Which statement best describes an EOB's content?

• A. It is a bill sent to the patient.
• B. It lists only the total charges.
• C. It explains what portion of the claim was paid by the insurer and what remains the patient's responsibility.
• D. It contains no dates of service.

Answer: (C)

An Explanation of Benefits shows how a claim was processed, breaking down the money flow between the insurer and the patient. It clearly states the portion the insurer paid and what the patient still owes—such as deductibles, coinsurance, and copays—and may include any remaining balance, dates of service, and reason codes for adjustments or denials. It isn’t a bill to the patient (that comes from the provider), and it doesn’t just list total charges. That combination of payment and patient responsibility is what makes it the best description of an EOB’s content.