If you live in Wales there are no prescription charges. If you live in England, Scotland or Northern Ireland and you or your partner are receiving any of the following benefits you are entitled to free prescriptions:
- Income Support
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
or - if you are named on Tax Credit NHS Exemption Certificate
(Disability Living Allowance DLA and Attendance Allowance don't count because they aren't based on your income).
If you don't receive any of these benefits, but you have difficulties paying NHS charges, you may qualify for help under the NHS Low Income Scheme.
This is an income-related Scheme which looks at your (and your partner's) weekly requirements and income to calculate how much, if anything, you should pay towards your health costs.
You can find out more about getting help with health costs at the Department of Health website if you live in England or Northern Ireland and on the Scottish government website if you live in Scotland.
If you need help in understanding how these rules apply to you contact the Citizens Advice Bureau or a hospital social worker for advice.