Help with NHS health costs such as prescriptions, dental treatment and eye care if you're on a low income.
Many people who are entitled to support never claim it. Check who qualifies, how much you could get and how to make your claim through the official channel.
The rules depend on where you live in the UK and on your household’s circumstances.
What NHS Low Income Scheme offers
- Full or partial help: Get an HC2 for full help or an HC3 for partial help.
- Covers several costs: Includes prescriptions, dental, eye care and travel.
- Lasts for a set period: Certificates are valid for a set time before you reapply.
- Couples: Covers you and your partner.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who can get it | People on a low income with savings under £16,000 (£23,250 if living permanently in a care home) |
| What it covers | Prescriptions, dental treatment, sight tests, glasses, travel to hospital |
| How much | Full help (HC2 certificate) or partial help (HC3 certificate), depending on income |
| How to claim | Apply online or with an HC1 form |
| Where | England, Wales and Northern Ireland |
Key points
Full or partial help: Get an HC2 for full help or an HC3 for partial help.
Covers several costs: Includes prescriptions, dental, eye care and travel.
Lasts for a set period: Certificates are valid for a set time before you reapply.
About NHS Business Services Authority
NHS Low Income Scheme is run by NHS Business Services Authority. Claims are made free of charge through the official government channel.
We explain the rules independently and then send you to the official page to claim. We are not a government website.
Amounts and rules can change. The decision on your claim is made by NHS Business Services Authority.