Free NHS prescriptions in England, are you entitled?

A simple guide to free NHS prescriptions in England

If you’re someone who regularly takes medication, you’ll know that it can be expensive and time-consuming to be constantly picking up and paying for prescriptions. At LloydsPharmacy, we’re always looking for new ways to make the prescription process easier and more affordable for our customers and patients. That’s why we’ve put together this simple guide to free NHS prescriptions in England.

Am I entitled to free NHS prescriptions?

The first thing to note is that all NHS prescriptions are free if you live in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.

In England, there are many different categories of people who are eligible for free NHS prescriptions. In each case, a factor like age or income is taken into account to ensure that people are charged fairly.

What medical exemptions from prescriptions may I be entitled to?

You are eligible for an NHS tax credit exemption certificate, which allows you access to the benefits listed above, if:

If you have a valid HC2 certificate, as part of the NHS Low Income Scheme, you will be eligible for free prescriptions.

It’s possible to qualify for free prescriptions when you are receiving Universal Credit, provided that your earnings from your most recent assessment period were £435 or less (or £935 or less if your Universal Credit covers a child or limited capability for work). Under these circumstances, you will qualify for the benefits listed above.

How do I get a medical exemption certificate?

If you’re eligible for a medical exemption certificate (by fitting one of the criteria above) then your doctor will be able to give you a FP92A application form. In the form you must state your condition which your doctor will then need to sign as proof. Once completed, you’ll be asked to send the form to the NHS Business Service Authority using the address listed on their website.

When your form has been received and approved, your medical exemption certificate will be active for five years before it needs to be renewed. It’s your responsibility to keep track of how long your certificate has been active for, although the NHS should send you a reminder before your five years have lapsed. If you continue to claim free prescriptions after your certificate has expired then you may be faced with a fine.

Don’t worry if you lose or damage your certificate, you can contact the NHS Business Service Authority to ask for a replacement which they will send to you within ten days. Be sure to also contact the service if you’ve had a change of address or circumstances as they will need to update your records (your doctor must also be kept informed about any changes you make).

What does a medical exemption certificate cover?

A standard medical exemption certificate (which differs from a maternity, tax credit or war pension exemption certificate) will grant you free NHS prescriptions only. The certificate will not afford you free dental treatment or help with any other health costs. You’ll need to show your certificate each time you collect a new prescription.

How do I get my NHS exemption card?

If you’re eligible for a medical exemption certificate (by fitting one of the criteria above) then your doctor will be able to give you a FP92A application form. In the form you must state your condition which your doctor will then need to sign as proof. Once completed, you’ll be asked to send the form to the NHS Business Service Authority using the address listed on their website.

How do I renew my NHS medical exemption certificate?

When it’s time to renew your certificate, you’ll need to speak with your doctor to re-apply. You’ll be sent a reminder one month before your card is due to expire.

Don’t worry if you lose or damage your certificate, you can contact the NHS Business Service Authority to ask for a replacement which they will send to you within ten days.

Do I still qualify for an NHS exemption card?

If you’ve had a change of circumstance, it’s important to contact the relevant service listed on the NHS website to ensure you’re still eligible (your doctor must also be kept informed about any changes you make). You may face a fine of up to £100 if you claim free prescriptions that you’re not entitled to.

How long does a medical exemption card last?

When your form has been received and approved, your medical exemption certificate will be active for five years before it needs to be renewed. It’s your responsibility to keep track of how long your certificate has been active for, although the NHS should send you a reminder before your five years have lapsed. If you continue to claim free prescriptions after your certificate has expired then you may be faced with a fine.

Check if you’re eligible

If you’re not sure if you qualify for free prescriptions in England, there’s an easy way to check on the NHS Business Service Authority website. If you don’t qualify for prescription exemption, LloydsPharmacy is still here for you. 

If you don’t have an NHS prescription but are looking for a safe, convenient consultation with a clinician, you can use our Online Doctor service for fast treatment and advice without the need for a face-to-face appointment.