Do You Get Free Prescriptions On Universal Credit

December 2023

Do You Get Free Prescriptions On Universal Credit In December 2023

This article examines whether Universal Credit recipients are eligible for free medications.

Prescriptions are an essential component of medical care for many individuals, but they can be expensive if you do not have access to free or cheap alternatives. Therefore they are an essential part of helping you meet your health costs.

There are, fortunately, alternatives for Universal Credit recipients to obtain their prescriptions for free or at a reduced cost.

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Do People On Universal Credit Receive Free Prescriptions?

In general, Universal Credit recipients will not be eligible for free medicines.

However, there are conditions under which a Universal Credit recipient can receive free medications. Specifically, if you:

– Are 60 years or older

– Have a valid HC2 certificate from the NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS)

– Have a valid exemption certificate from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP)

– Are under 16 or between 16 and 18 and in full-time education

– Are pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months

– Meet other requirements set out by your local clinical commissioning group.

You may qualify for free medicines while receiving Universal Credit if you meet any of these conditions.

If you do not match any of the eligibility requirements, you may still be eligible for cheaper prescriptions by applying for NHS Prescription Pre-payment Certificates (PPCs). 

PPCs can give up to three months’ worth of prescription pharmaceuticals for a single payment, and the cost will be less than buying prescriptions individually.

Will You Need To Bring Proof With You To Get A Free Prescription?

When you go to obtain a free prescription, you will need to bring documentation with you. A valid HC2 certificate from the NHS Low Income Scheme or a certificate of exemption from the Department of Work and Pensions will suffice.

If you do not have one of these, you should ask your local clinic or pharmacy if they accept alternative forms of identification that may allow you to obtain free medications.

Universal Credit recipients may qualify for free prescriptions if they meet specific criteria established by their local clinical commissioning group.

Even if they do not match this criterion, individuals may still acquire discounted prescriptions by using NHS Prescription Prepayment Certificates. When picking up a free prescription, it is necessary to bring proof of eligibility to obtain it.

What Other Benefits Include Free NHS Prescriptions?

In addition to Universal Credit, there are a variety of other advantages, such as free medications from the National Health Service.

These include those making claims for:

  • Pension credit
  • Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
  • Jobseeker’s Allowance, and
  • Tax credit, such as child tax credit or working tax credit

It is also important to note that everyone in England, Scotland, and Wales who meets certain criteria can receive free emergency dental care on the NHS.

If you are unclear about your eligibility for free or discounted prescriptions, consult your local pharmacy or clinic, as they may be able to provide advice tailored to your situation.

Can You Get Free NHS Prescriptions If You Are On A Low Income?

Yes, it is feasible for low-income individuals to receive free NHS prescriptions.

The NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS) offers an HC2 certificate that can be used to obtain free or discounted prescriptions from your local pharmacy or clinic.

To apply for this, you must give proof of your income and expenses; therefore, ensure that you have all the necessary documentation before applying.

It is also important to note that various laws and eligibility requirements may apply in Northern Ireland; therefore, it is best to contact your local healthcare provider for additional information on the possibilities available there.

What Box Do You Tick On A Prescription For Universal Credit?

When filling out your prescription, you must check the box labelled “Universal Credit.” This shows that payment for the medication is covered by Universal Credit, exempting you from the fee.

If you are exempt from paying for healthcare expenses, you must provide your Medical Exemption Certificate at the point of care. You can also request a refund on any fees paid by selecting the appropriate box on the Universal Credit application (UC).

Do not hesitate to call the Prescription Refunds team at the Department of Health and Social Care if you have any queries or require assistance claiming a refund. They will be able to provide more direction and assistance.

Prescription For Universal Credit

Do You Pay For Prescriptions If You’re On Benefits?

If you receive certain benefits, you may be excluded from paying for certain healthcare expenses, such as prescription fees. This includes individuals receiving Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Income Support, Universal Credit, or Pension Credit Guarantee Credit, which are all dependent on income.

If you are eligible for exemption, you must apply to the Department of Health and Social Care for a Medical Exemption Certificate. Once your application has been granted, you will receive a certificate that must be displayed at point-of-care services, such as hospitals and general practitioners’ offices.

You can also request a refund on any fees paid by selecting the appropriate box on the Universal Credit application (UC). Contact the Prescription Refunds team at the Department of Health and Social Care if your claim is delayed or if you have any questions. 

They can assist with any questions or problems you may have.

It is essential that your Medical Exemption Certificate be kept up-to-date and renewed when necessary; thus, send any required documentation without delay.

If you require additional information at any time, please contact the Medical Exemption Certificate team.

"Universal Credit recipients may qualify for free prescriptions if they meet specific criteria established by their local clinical commissioning group."

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Who Can Get Free Prescriptions?

Free prescriptions are available to anyone who meets the qualifying requirements established by their local clinical commissioning committee.

Pregnant women and new mothers, as well as individuals with a valid HC2 certificate from the NHS Low Income Scheme, fall under this category (LIS).

It’s important to note that different rules apply in Northern Ireland, so you should check with your local health care provider to learn more about the options available there.

In addition, some individuals may be eligible for cheaper prescriptions via NHS Prescription Prepayment Certificates.

If you are unclear of your eligibility for free or discounted prescriptions, it is always a good idea to consult your local pharmacy or clinic, as they may be able to provide advice tailored to you.

Free Prescriptions

Can I Get Free Prescriptions If I Have Pre-Existing Medical Conditions?

Yes, those with pre-existing medical issues who meet the qualifying criteria established by their local clinical commissioning group are eligible for free prescriptions.

Pregnant women and new mothers, as well as individuals with a valid HC2 certificate from the NHS Low Income Scheme, generally fall under this category (LIS).

It’s important to note that different rules apply in Northern Ireland, so you should check with your local health provider to learn more about available options. In addition, some individuals may be eligible for cheaper prescriptions via NHS Prescription Prepayment Certificates.

How To Apply For A Medical Exemption Certificate?

If you are eligible for a medical exemption certificate, you must submit an application to the Department of Health and Social Care. The application procedure is easy and uncomplicated:

1 – Complete a form on the NHS website

You must give your contact information, medical history, a statement from your general practitioner (GP) or consultant verifying your eligibility for exemption from payment of healthcare charges, and any other pertinent documentation.

2 – Application approval

When the Department of Health and Social Care has approved your application, they will mail you a Medical Exemption Certificate along with instructions on utilising it.

Apply For A Medical Exemption Certificate

3 – Present your certificate

Present your certificate when requested at point-of-care facilities such as hospitals or general practitioner offices.

4 – Check certificate expiry

When the certificate expires, it will be necessary to renew it. Contact your primary care physician or consultant and request that they complete a new statement verifying your eligibility for exemption from payment of healthcare expenditures.

Include this with your application for renewal on the NHS website.

It is crucial to know that medical exemption certificates are only valid if they are kept up-to-date – so make sure you submit any documentation required when necessary.

If you have any queries or require further information, don’t hesitate to contact the Medical Exemption Certificate team at the Department of Health & Social Care.

How Can I Claim A Refund On A Prescription Charge?

If you have paid a prescription charge and are entitled to a refund, you must fill out a form on the NHS website. You must submit payment verification (such as a receipt), your contact information, and any other pertinent papers.

Your claim should be handled within thirty days, and you will receive either a check or a direct deposit into your bank account. If there is a delay in processing, contact the Prescription Refunds team at the Department of Health and Social Care immediately.

Ensure that you save all receipts if there are questions regarding your claim. If at any stage you require additional information or assistance, please contact the Prescription Refunds team.

You can also contact the Citizens Advice Bureau for additional help if you need it.

Meet the author

Jane Parkinson

Jane Parkinson

Jane is one of our primary content writers and specialises in elder care. She has a degree in English language and literature from Manchester University and has been writing and reviewing products for a number of years.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Will You Need To Bring Proof With You To Get A Free Prescription?

When you go to obtain a free prescription, you will need to bring documentation with you. A valid HC2 certificate from the NHS Low Income Scheme or a certificate of exemption from the Department of Work and Pensions will suffice.

Can You Get Free NHS Prescriptions If You Are On A Low Income?

Yes, it is feasible for low-income individuals to receive free NHS prescriptions.

The NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS) offers an HC2 certificate that can be used to obtain free or discounted prescriptions from your local pharmacy or clinic.

What Box Do You Tick On A Prescription For Universal Credit?

When filling out your prescription, you must check the box labelled “Universal Credit.” This shows that payment for the medication is covered by Universal Credit, exempting you from the fee.

If you are exempt from paying for healthcare expenses, you must provide your Medical Exemption Certificate at the point of care. You can also request a refund on any fees paid by selecting the appropriate box on the Universal Credit application (UC).

Who Can Get Free Prescriptions?

Free prescriptions are available to anyone who meets the qualifying requirements established by their local clinical commissioning committee.

Pregnant women and new mothers, as well as individuals with a valid HC2 certificate from the NHS Low Income Scheme, fall under this category (LIS).

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