You asked about Free NHS Prescriptions and Health Costs (England): here is how it works, how much you could get and how it is paid.
See eligibility & how to claim →
Below you’ll find how much you could get, how it is paid and how the scheme works.
Amounts can change each tax year, so always check the latest rates on the official page.
Support you may be entitled to
Eligibility checkerEngland chargesExemptions available
💷 How much & how it is paid
- Who can get it: People aged 60+ or under 16 (or 16 to 18 in full-time education), on certain benefits, pregnant or recently pregnant, or with certain medical conditions
- What it covers: Prescriptions, dental treatment, sight tests and some other health costs
- How to claim: Use the online eligibility checker; some exemptions need a certificate
- Where: Prescription charges apply only in England; prescriptions are free in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
⚙️ How it works
Eligibility is decided by the responsible body based on your circumstances. Once your claim is approved, payments are made according to the scheme’s rules. Report any change in your circumstances so your payments stay correct.
🧮 Check what you could get
Use an independent benefits calculator linked from GOV.UK to estimate what you may be entitled to before you claim.
Penalty charges can apply if you claim free prescriptions and are not entitled.