Full list of who is eligible to receive NHS prescriptions for free
Prescriptions currently cost £9.90 for a single charge(Image: Getty Images)
There are several criteria that could entitle you to receive your NHS prescriptions for free, including if you are over a certain age or if you receive certain benefits. If you meet any of the following six criteria you will be eligible for a free NHS prescription.
In the UK, the majority of adults pay for their NHS prescriptions, which generally cost around £9.90 per item.
But there are six things that may entitle you to free prescriptions, according to the NHS. Some of these criteria will automatically entitle you to a free prescription, while others will require you to apply for a certificate before you are able to pick up your prescription for free.
It comes after the NHS confirmed in April that millions of people across the country will see the cost of their prescriptions frozen for the first time in three years. The move will save patients around £18 million next year – keeping prescriptions at £9.90 for a single charge.
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Some types of prescriptions are also automatically free themselves, including contraceptives and any medication you receive as an in-patient in hospital.
But in other cases you may need to apply for additional documentation to prove that you’re eligible for a free prescription.
If you are unsure whether you are eligible it is recommended that you check with your prescriber.
Who gets free prescriptions?People aged under 18 and over 60
Certain people are entitled to a free prescription if they are of a certain age. You’re automatically entitled to free NHS prescriptions if you’re:
Under 16Aged 16-18 and in full time educationAged 60 or over
If your date of birth is on your prescription you will automatically be able to request a free prescription, although anyone between the ages of 16 and 18 may need to show proof they are in full time education.
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People receiving income-based benefits
Anyone who is receiving certain income-based benefits are automatically entitled to free prescriptions. You’re automatically entitled to free NHS prescriptions if you receive:
Income SupportIncome-based Jobseeker’s AllowanceIncome-related Employment and Support Allowance
If you receive any of these benefits you can use your award notice as proof of being entitled to free prescriptions. Your partner or any dependants under the age of 20 will also be eligible for free prescriptions.
If you or your partner is receiving Pension Credit Guarantee Credit or Pension Credit Guarantee Credit with Savings Credit then you are also entitled to free prescriptions.
Pregnant women
Pregnant women and those who have had a baby in the last 12 months are also entitled to free prescriptions if they have a valid maternity exemptions certificate. You will need to show this as proof that you are entitled to a free prescription.
People with certain medical conditions
Those with a valid medical exemption certificate can receive free prescriptions. Medical conditions that may make you eligible for free prescriptions include:
Certain thyroid conditionsCertain types of diabetesAn ongoing physical disability that stops you going out without another person’s helpEpilepsy that means you need continuous anticonvulsive therapyA stoma (such as colostomy) that needs a continuous surgical dressing or use of an applianceCancer and you’re going through treatment for the cancer itself, its effects, or the effects of cancer treatment
The full list of medical conditions that qualify you for a medical exemption certificate can be found on the NHS website.
People on a low income
Anyone on a low income including students and pensioners can qualify for a free prescription.
To qualify you will need to have a valid HC2 certificate – a document that entitles the holder to full help with NHS health costs – by applying to the NHS Low Income Scheme.
People who receive War Pension Scheme or Armed Forces Compensation Scheme payments
If you have a valid war pension certificate and the prescription you are requiring is for your accepted disability, you are eligible for free prescriptions.