NHS Low Income Scheme

The NHS Low Income Scheme is set up to help people 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)

How much help you get depends on your weekly income and necessary outgoings, plus any savings or investments you have at the time you apply. If the amount you have left is low, you may be able to get help through the NHS Low Income Scheme. 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.

Applications are assessed within 18 working days from the date your form is received.

Applying online

A new service is currently being trialled whereby some people can apply online for the NHS Low Income Scheme. You can only apply online if you do not have capital or savings of over £6,000.

To apply, you must be at least one of the following:

• a pensioner
• a student
• earning a wage
• receiving state benefits
• living in a care home

Before you apply for the NHS Low Income Scheme, we recommend you read the guidance under ‘How applications are assessed’.

Information on the scheme can be found on the website: https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/nhs-low-income-scheme

In the ‘How to Apply’ section there are links to order an HC1 form to be printed and delivered, or the HC1 form can be downloaded to fill online here: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/help-with-health-costs/nhs-low-income-scheme-lis/. Forms should also be available from GPs and Job Centres.