NHS Prescription Costs & Free Entitlement (England – 2025)
Prescription Charges (2025 Rates)
- Standard charge per item: £9.90
(Applies to most adults in England)
Who Gets Free Prescriptions?
You may be entitled to free NHS prescriptions if you:
- Are under 16, 16–18 and in full-time education, or 60 or over
- Hold a valid:
- Medical exemption certificate (e.g. for diabetes, epilepsy, cancer)
- Maternity exemption certificate
- NHS tax credit exemption certificate
- HC2 certificate (for low-income support)
- Receive certain benefits, including:
- Universal Credit (with qualifying conditions)
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
You must tick the exemption box on the prescription form and be ready to show proof if asked.
Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC)
If you pay for multiple prescriptions, a PPC can save money:
- 3-month PPC: £32.05
- 12-month PPC: £114.50 (covers unlimited items)
Ideal if you need more than 3 items in 3 months, or more than 12 per year
Purchase online at: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/ppc
