The NHS is free at the point of use — but prescriptions, dental treatment, and eye tests aren't always free. The good news? Millions of people qualify for exemptions and don't claim them. This is money you should be keeping as part of your cost of living strategy.
Who Gets Free NHS Prescriptions?
In Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, all prescriptions are already free. In England, you get free prescriptions if you:
- Are under 16 (or under 19 in full-time education)
- Are 60 or over
- Have certain medical conditions (diabetes, epilepsy, cancer, etc.)
- Are pregnant or had a baby in the last 12 months
- Receive certain benefits (Universal Credit with nil income, Income Support, JSA)
- Have a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate
- Are a war pensioner (for war-related conditions)
Save with a Prescription Prepayment Certificate
If you don't qualify for free prescriptions but need regular medication, a Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) caps your costs. A 3-month PPC costs £31.25 and a 12-month PPC costs £111.60 (vs £9.90 per item). If you need more than 11 prescriptions a year, the annual PPC saves you money. You can pay monthly by direct debit too.
Free Dental Treatment and Eye Tests
- Free dental treatment: Under 18s, pregnant women, new mothers (12 months after birth), those on qualifying benefits
- NHS dental charges (if not exempt): Band 1 (£26.80), Band 2 (£73.50), Band 3 (£319.10)
- Free eye tests: Under 16, 16-18 in education, over 60, those on certain benefits, people with diabetes or glaucoma risk
- Free glasses voucher: If you qualify for a free eye test, you may also get help with glasses costs
- HC2 certificate: Full help with all NHS costs if you're on a very low income
How to Check Your Eligibility
Use the NHS Low Income Scheme (apply via form HC1) if you're on a low income but don't receive qualifying benefits. You could get full help (HC2 certificate) or partial help (HC3 certificate) with prescriptions, dental, eye care, travel to hospital, and wigs/fabric supports. Check on the NHS website or call the NHS Business Services Authority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a refund if I paid for a prescription I was exempt from?
Yes, you can claim a refund within 3 months using form FP57 (given by your pharmacist) or contacting the NHS Business Services Authority.
Do I get free prescriptions on Universal Credit?
Only if you receive Universal Credit with nil earnings (or earn below a threshold). Check your UC statement — it's not automatic for all UC claimants.
How do I find an NHS dentist?
Use the NHS website's 'Find a Dentist' tool. NHS dental availability varies hugely by area — some regions have very long waits. Register early, even if you don't need treatment immediately.
- NHS costs
- free prescriptions
- dental costs
- healthcare
- UK benefits