Under the Scheme, you are entitled to free prescriptions if your income and savings are low enough. You can also get full or partial help with the cost of dental treatment, wigs and fabric supports, eyesight tests and glasses, and fares to hospital (see also Help with transport costs). There is no partial help with the cost of prescriptions, but you can buy a Prescription Prepayment Certificate.

How can I claim for the Low Income Scheme?

You can claim on form HC1, which you can get from your Social Security office or Jobs and Benefits office.

Refund

If you have already paid for your prescriptions, fares to hospital, dental and eye treatment, or a wig, you can claim a refund if you apply within three months, using form HC5. However, you will need to ask your pharmacist, optician or dentist for the relevant receipt form when you pay for your item or treatment, e.g. form FS7 for prescriptions.

For more information, see the Department of Health leaflet HC11 − Help with health costs.