I have an elderly gentleman that is saying that his co-pay is $50 and his doctor is putting a $1.00 tax on it. Is this legal?

Unless I'm mistaken, I don't believe that lay people, or anyone other than a governmental entity, has taxing authority under the US and state constitutions.

I suspect the $1 is a processing charge, or late charge, or something like that. Perhaps your elderly friend was confused?

Still, it's not very friendly of his doctor to do this; unless this doctor is an outstanding practitioner, I'd be looking for one who doesn't pad the bill.

Services aren't taxed. I agree with GA that the charge was probably for something else.

It could be if the elderly gentleman is using a credit card to pay for the co-pay, the office is charging a $1.00 for the use of using a credit card.

There should be no tax on services. I would have him ask at office what the charge was for. Then if he is correct that they call it a tax he should call his ins company and talk with them.

FF is on the right track. If you use a debit card at the doctors office, your bank adds on its ATM fee.

Seattle, ask if the office charges for use of a credit card. We use them on noncovered charges and have never experienced the add on fees. Firms typically factor it into the price of noncovered items, where it's less noticeable.