From the 1st May 2024 the prescription charge will be £9.90 per item.
You can get free NHS prescriptions if you:
- are 60 or over
- are under 16
- are 16 to 18 and in full-time education
- are pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months and have a valid maternity exemption certificate
- have a specified medical condition and have a valid medical exemption certificate
- hold a valid war pension exemption certificate and the prescription is for your accepted disability
Or if you receive, or are entitled to or named on:
- income support
- income-based jobseeker’s allowance
- income-related employment and support allowance
- pension credit guarantee credit
- universal credit and meet the criteria
- a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate
- a valid NHS certificate for full help with health costs (HC2)
There’s a simple way to find out if you’re eligible for free NHS prescriptions and any help with other NHS costs. Use the eligibility checker.
Prescription Prepayment Certificate
A prescription prepayment certificate (PPC) could save you money if you have to pay for your NHS prescriptions:
- a 3-month PPC costs £32.05
- a 12-month PPC is £114.50
| Number of prescribed medicines each month | Saving with a 12 month PPC | Saving with a 3 month PPC |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | More than £116 a year | More than £25 in 3 months |
| 3 | More than £228 a year | More than £53 in 3 months |
| 4 | More than £340 a year | More than £81 in 3 months |
The quickest way to buy a PPC is online. If you prefer talking to someone, you can call the PPC order line on: 0300 330 1341.
NHS Hormone Replacement Therapy Prescription Prepayment Certificate (HRT PPC)
You can get an HRT prescription prepayment certificate from the NHS which costs £19.80 for 12 months.
Before buying an HRT PPC, check if
- you’re eligible for free NHS prescriptions using the eligibility checker
- your medicine is covered by the HRT PPC. For a list of eligible HRT medication, visit: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/hrt-ppc-medicines
- a 3 or 12 month PPC is more suitable. It covers all NHS prescriptions, not just HRT items.
