NHS prescriptions in England cost £9.90 per item (2025/26) — and for people on regular medication, this adds up quickly. However, many people qualify for free prescriptions and do not realise it. In Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, all prescriptions are free.
Who Gets Free Prescriptions?
Age-Based Exemptions
| Category | Exemption |
|---|---|
| Under 16 | Free |
| 16–18 in full-time education | Free |
| 60 and over | Free |
Medical Exemptions
If you have one of these conditions, all your prescriptions are free:
| Condition | Certificate Needed |
|---|---|
| Diabetes (except diet-controlled) | Medical exemption certificate (MedEx) |
| Hypothyroidism / myxoedema | MedEx |
| Epilepsy requiring continuous treatment | MedEx |
| A continuing physical disability preventing you from leaving home without help | MedEx |
| Cancer and effects of cancer treatment | MedEx |
| A permanent fistula requiring dressing | MedEx |
| Addison’s disease / hypoadrenalism | MedEx |
| Hypoparathyroidism | MedEx |
| Diabetes insipidus | MedEx |
| Myasthenia gravis | MedEx |
How to get a MedEx: Ask your GP to complete form FP92A.
Pregnancy and Maternity
| Circumstance | Exemption |
|---|---|
| Pregnant | Free (maternity exemption certificate) |
| Given birth in last 12 months | Free |
How to get it: Your midwife or GP completes the application.
Income-Based Exemptions
| Benefit/Circumstance | Exemption |
|---|---|
| Receiving Income Support | Free |
| Receiving income-based JSA | Free |
| Receiving income-based ESA | Free |
| Receiving Pension Credit Guarantee Credit | Free |
| Universal Credit (earnings £0 or below threshold) | Free |
| Named on a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate | Free |
| Named on an HC2 certificate (full help) | Free |
| Named on an HC3 certificate (partial help) | Reduced cost |
| War pensioner (for war-related prescriptions) | Free |
HC2/HC3 Certificates (Low Income Scheme)
If you do not receive qualifying benefits but have a low income:
- Complete form HC1 (available from Jobcentre Plus or online)
- If eligible, you receive an HC2 (full help) or HC3 (partial help)
- HC2 gives free prescriptions, dental treatment, eye tests, and travel costs
- Valid for 6 months (or 12 months for pension-age claimants)
Prescription Prepayment Certificates (PPC)
If you do not qualify for free prescriptions but need regular medication:
| PPC | Cost | Break-Even Point |
|---|---|---|
| 3-month PPC | £32.05 | 4+ prescriptions in 3 months |
| 12-month PPC | £111.60 | 12+ prescriptions in 12 months |
| 12-month PPC (monthly direct debit) | £9.30/month (10 payments) | Same |
Is a PPC Worth It?
| Prescriptions per Year | Cost Without PPC | Cost With 12-Month PPC | Saving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | £59.40 | £111.60 | -£52.20 (not worth it) |
| 12 | £118.80 | £111.60 | £7.20 |
| 24 | £237.60 | £111.60 | £126.00 |
| 52 (weekly) | £514.80 | £111.60 | £403.20 |
How to buy: Online at nhsbsa.nhs.uk/ppc or by phone (0300 330 1341).
Free Prescriptions in Devolved Nations
| Nation | Policy |
|---|---|
| Scotland | Free for everyone |
| Wales | Free for everyone |
| Northern Ireland | Free for everyone |
| England | Charges apply (with exemptions) |
Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Not claiming exemption you qualify for | Paying unnecessarily |
| Using the wrong exemption category | Fine of up to £100 |
| Not renewing expired certificates | Charged full price |
| Not buying a PPC when on regular medication | Paying more than you need to |
| Ticking “exempt” when you are not | You will be checked and fined |
Penalty Charges
The NHS checks exemption claims. If you claim a free prescription incorrectly:
- Penalty charge notice: £100 (reduced to £50 if paid within 28 days)
- Plus the cost of the prescription(s)
Only claim an exemption if you are genuinely entitled.
How to Check Your Entitlement
- NHS prescription cost checker: nhsbsa.nhs.uk
- Turn2us benefits calculator: turn2us.org.uk
- Your GP surgery: Can advise on medical exemptions
- Citizens Advice: For income-based exemptions
For more on reducing healthcare and household costs, see our household bills guide and state benefits overview.