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NHS Prescription Costs


Some groups are automatically entitled to free NHS prescriptions. Others can apply for certificates that entitle them to free NHS prescriptions.  https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/help-nhs-prescription-costs/free-nhs-prescriptions

 

Some prescribed items are always free, including contraceptives and medication given to hospital inpatients.

 

If you do not have to pay these costs, the NHS will ask to see proof of your entitlement, such as a prescription prepayment certificate (PPC), benefit award notice, or an exemption certificate.  It’s your own responsibility to check that you’re entitled before claiming free prescriptions. If you claim free prescriptions that you’re not entitled to, you could have to pay a penalty charge of up to £100.

 

Who is eligible for free NHS prescriptions

·         Those aged under 16, aged 16-18 and in full time education, and those aged 60 or over.

·         You’re included in an award for Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or Income-related Employment and Support Allowance.

·         You or your partner gets Pension Credit Guarantee Credit or Pension Credit Guarantee Credit with Savings Credit. 

·         You are pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months and you have a valid maternity exemption certificate.  Speak to your midwife, doctor or health visitor who will complete the application for you.

·         You receive War Pension Scheme or Armed Forces Compensation Scheme payments and have a valid war pension exemption certificate, and your prescription is for your accepted disability.

·         Those with certain medical conditions.  You can only get free NHS prescriptions because of your medical condition if you have a valid medical exemption certificate. You can get an application form from your GP if your medical condition entitles you to free prescriptions.

·         Those who hold a valid HC2 certificate. These certificates are issued to people who qualify for full help with health costs through the NHS Low Income Scheme. 

·         In receipt of Universal Credit and your total take-home pay in the last assessment period is within certain limits. https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/uc 

 

When you’re not eligible

·         If you’re receiving contribution-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance, you are not automatically entitled to free NHS prescriptions.  However, you could apply for help through the NHS Low Income Scheme.

·         You receive Pension Credit Savings Credit only


If you’re not currently entitled to free prescriptions


If you’re struggling financially, please contact us and we can support you and/or signpost you to other sources of support.


PWCAC is OPEN for face-to-face advice (appointments and drop-ins) Monday to Friday, 9:30 – 1:30. If you need advice about welfare benefits, housing and homelessness, debt, relationship breakdown, consumer issues or anything else, get in touch:

info@pwadvice.org | 01892 838619    94 Commercial Road, Paddock Wood, TN12 6DP

 
 
 

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