If you have a low income, you may be able to get help with NHS costs through the NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS).
The scheme covers:
You can apply for the scheme as long as your savings, investments or property (not including where you live) do not exceed the capital limit.
In England, the limit is:
- £23,250 for people who live permanently in a care home
- £16,000 for everyone else
Any help you’re entitled to is also available to your partner and any dependant young people.
Depending on your circumstances, you can receive full help (HC2 certificate) or partial help (HC3 certificate).
You qualify for full help if your weekly income is less than or equal to your weekly requirements (a personal allowance to cover your day-to-day living expenses and housing costs), or is greater than your weekly requirements by no more than half the current NHS prescription charges.
If your income exceeds your requirements, you may be entitled to partial help. Your certificate will show how much you have to pay towards your health costs.
How to apply
There are 2 ways to apply for the NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS). You can apply online or by post.
To find out who can apply online, or to make an online application, go to the NHS Business Services Authority website.
To apply by post you’ll need to complete an HC1 form and send it to the address on the form.
You can order an HC1 form online, or download an HC1 form from the NHS Business Services Authority website and print it yourself.
Jobcentre Plus office or NHS hospital
The form may also be available from your local Jobcentre Plus office or NHS hospital. A doctor, dentist or optician may also be able to give you one.
If you need help making your claim or have questions about the LIS, call 0300 330 1343. Telephone lines are open Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm, and Saturday 9am to 3pm.
Certificates are usually valid for between 6 months and 5 years, depending on your circumstances.
