What is it?

An entitlement that means you do not need to pay for prescriptions and eye tests.

If you live in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland then everyone receieves free prescriptions whatever their age.

If you live in Wales or Northern Ireland you may also be entitled to free dental examinations.

Can I get it?

If you are aged 60 or over you qualify automatically.

If you are under 60 you are entitled to free NHS prescriptions if you’re included in an award for:

• Income Support

• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance

• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance

• Pension Credit Guarantee Credit or

• Pension Credit Guarantee Credit with Savings Credit.

OR your annual family income is £15,276 or less and you receive either:

• Child Tax Credit

• Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit paid together

• Working Tax Credit including a disability element

OR  you’re getting Universal Credit and your monthly earnings are:

• £435 or less

• £935 or less if your Universal Credit includes an element for a child, or if you have a limited capability for work or limited capability for work and work related activity.

How do I claim?

Tell your pharmacist or optician that you are entitled to a free service, who will ask you to complete a declaration that you are exempt. For more information on free prescriptions and eye tests call the advice line on 0845 850 1166.