If you have a low income, the NHS Low Income Scheme could help you pay for:
- NHS prescription charges
- NHS dental treatment charges
- the cost of sight tests, glasses and contact lenses
- the cost of travelling to receive NHS treatment
- NHS wigs and fabric supports (check with your hospital for their arrangements for supplying NHS wigs)
The amount of help you’re entitled to depends on your household income and outgoings. Any help you’re entitled to is also available to your partner, if you have one.
If you have already paid for treatment, you can apply for a refund at the same time as you apply for the scheme.
Who can apply
Anyone can apply as long as they don’t have savings or investments over a certain limit. You can’t get help if you or your partner (or both) have more than:
- £16,000 in savings, investments or property (not including the place where you live)
- £23,250 in savings, investments or property if you live permanently in a care home (£24,000 if you live in Wales)
Who doesn’t need to apply
You don’t need to apply if you or your partner are named on, or entitled to an NHS tax credit certificate or get:
- Income Support
- Universal Credit (in some circumstances)
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
You’re already entitled to full help with health costs.
How to apply (HC1 form)
You need to fill in an HC1 form and post it to:
NHS Low Income Scheme
NHS Business Services Authority
Bridge House
152 Pilgrim Street
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 6SN
You will need to use a stamp.
If you need help making your claim or have questions about the LIS, call 0300 330 1343 to speak to an adviser. They can also fill in the form for you and post it to you to sign and return it to them
Renewing your certificate
If you already have an HC2 or HC3 certificate through the NHS Low Income Scheme and would like to renew it, you will still need to complete a new HC1 form.
Where to get an HC1
If you live in England:
Download and print an HC1 form (218KB)
Order an HC1 form online (it will be posted to you)
You can also get the HC1 from Jobcentres, GP practices, pharmacies and Citizens Advice centres.
