The help is automatic for some people and needs form HC1 for others. Here is which group you are in.
Quick facts
- Prescriptions
- Free for everyone in NI
- Also covers
- Dental, sight tests, glasses, travel to treatment
- Automatic for
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit, some Universal Credit
- Low income?
- Claim on form HC1
- Certificate
- HC2 (full) or HC3 (partial), for 12 months
Prescriptions are free
All prescriptions dispensed in Northern Ireland are free for everyone, including medication, wigs and surgical appliances. You do not need to do anything.
Who gets free dental, eye tests, glasses and travel
Some people qualify because of their age, a medical condition, or a War Disablement Pension.
You get all of it if you or your partner get Pension Credit Guarantee Credit, or Universal Credit with no earnings or net earnings of £435 or less in your last assessment period. The limit is £935 if you claim for children or have limited capability for work.
Anyone else on Universal Credit or a low income may still get help by claiming.
How to claim
If you qualify automatically, fill in the back of your prescription form, or tell your dentist or optician, and show proof at the hospital for travel costs.
Otherwise, fill in form HC1 and send it to your local Jobs and Benefits office. You get no help until you have sent it and been told you qualify. If successful, you get an HC2 certificate for full help or HC3 for partial help, each for 12 months. Send a new HC1 before it runs out.
Common questions
Are prescriptions free in Northern Ireland?
Yes, for everyone. You do not need to do anything.
Can I get free dental treatment in Northern Ireland?
Yes, if you get Pension Credit Guarantee Credit or qualifying Universal Credit, or if a claim on form HC1 shows a low income.
What is form HC1?
The claim form for help with health and travel costs if you are on a low income.