You can get free NHS prescriptions if, at the time the prescription is dispensed, 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 (MATEX)
- have a specified medical condition and have a valid medical exemption certificate (MEDEX)
- have a continuing physical disability that prevents you going out without help from another person and have a valid medical exemption certificate (MEDEX)
- hold a valid war pension exemption certificate and the prescription is for your accepted disability
- are an NHS inpatient
You're also entitled if you or your partner get, or you're under the age of 20 and the dependant of someone getting:
- Income Support
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- Universal Credit and meet the qualifying conditions
If you're entitled to or named on:
- a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate
- a valid HC2 certificate
If you have a HC3 for partial help with health costs are not entitled to free NHS prescriptions.
Check what help you could get to pay for NHS costs and apply online.