What is the penalty for unknowingly violating HIPAA?

The penalty for unknowingly violating HIPAA is set at $100 per violation. This reflects the intent of the law to be both punitive and educational; the fines aim to encourage compliance with privacy regulations while recognizing that not all violations result from malicious intent.

When a healthcare provider or entity does not intend to violate HIPAA but does so due to negligence, this tier of penalty is designed to provide a manageable consequence that still emphasizes the importance of safeguarding protected health information (PHI). The structured fine system under HIPAA reflects varying degrees of culpability, ensuring that more serious violations incur greater penalties.

This progressive fines structure helps ensure that organizations are diligent about HIPAA compliance. The penalties for willful neglect or repeated violations increase significantly, which illustrates the law's commitment to protecting patient privacy and holding organizations accountable for their practices.