Detailed Answer

A statement of account itemizes all charges, payments and credits to show your current balance. Oregon law requires specific details when filing a statement of account in a lawsuit over unpaid debts. Under ORS 18.120, a plaintiff must list separately the original debt and each credit or payment applied against it. Insurance reimbursements and government program payments fall under this “payment” category and appear in the payments or credits column of the statement.

On most statements of account, you will see columns labeled “Date,” “Description,” “Charges,” “Payments/Credits,” and “Balance.” Third-party payments from an insurance company or a government program—such as Medicare, Medicaid, or VA benefits—are listed in the “Payments/Credits” column. Each entry includes:

• Date of payment: When the insurer or program paid.
• Payer description: The name of the insurance carrier or government program (e.g., ‘Medicare Part B’).
• Amount: The exact dollar figure applied.

These entries reduce your outstanding balance. You may also see a subheading such as “Third-Party Payments” or “Other Credits” grouping all insurance and government payments together.

For more on Oregon’s account statement requirements, see ORS 18.120: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/ors/ors018.html.

Helpful Hints

• Review each payment entry carefully to ensure accuracy in date, payer name, and amount.
• Keep your own records of insurance or program benefit explanations (EOBs) to cross-check the statement.
• If you spot an unrecognized payment, contact your insurer or program administrator immediately.
• Ask the creditor for an updated statement if insurance or program payments post after the current statement date.
• Consider consulting an attorney if you dispute any charges or credits.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney to discuss your specific situation.