Who is entitled to free NHS prescriptions?

Free prescriptions are available to: children under 16, people aged 60 or over, pregnant women, those with certain medical conditions (e.g. diabetes, epilepsy, hypothyroidism), and those on qualifying benefits such as Universal Credit or Income Support.

NHS Prescription Cost Calculator

Q: What is a Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC)?

A PPC lets you pay a flat fee for unlimited prescription items. A 3-month PPC costs £32.05 and a 12-month PPC costs £111.60 in 2026. If you need more than 3 items in 3 months, or more than 11 items per year, a PPC saves you money.

Q: How many prescriptions make a PPC worthwhile?

A 3-month PPC (£32.05) saves money from 4 items per 3 months. A 12-month PPC (£111.60) saves money from 12 items per year, as 12 items at £9.90 each would cost £118.80.

Your Prescription Details

Prescription items per month Count each item separately (e.g. 3 items on one prescription = 3)

Are you entitled to free prescriptions?

Option	Annual Cost	Saving vs No PPC
No PPC (pay per item)	£0	—
3-Month PPC × 4	£128.20	—
12-Month PPC	£111.60	—

2026 NHS Prescription Charges

Single item charge: £9.90
3-month Prepayment Certificate (PPC): £32.05
12-month Prepayment Certificate (PPC): £111.60
Break-even (3-month PPC): 4+ items per 3 months
Break-even (12-month PPC): 12+ items per year

Free Prescription Eligibility

You pay nothing if you are: under 16; aged 60 or over; pregnant or had a baby in the last 12 months; have a qualifying medical condition (diabetes, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, hypoadrenalism, myasthenia gravis, continuing physical disability, cancer); or receive qualifying benefits (Universal Credit, Income Support, Pension Credit, NHS Low Income Scheme).

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an NHS prescription cost in 2026?

Each NHS prescription item costs £9.90 in 2026. This charge applies per item, so a prescription with three items costs £29.70 in total.

What is a Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC)?

A PPC lets you pay a flat fee for unlimited NHS prescription items. The 3-month PPC costs £32.05 and the 12-month PPC costs £111.60. If you need more than 3 items in 3 months, or more than 11 items per year, a PPC saves you money.

Who qualifies for free NHS prescriptions?

Free prescriptions are available to children under 16, people aged 60+, pregnant women, those with certain medical conditions (diabetes, epilepsy, etc.), and people receiving qualifying benefits like Universal Credit.

How many prescriptions make a PPC worthwhile?

A 3-month PPC (£32.05) is worth it from 4 items in 3 months. A 12-month PPC (£111.60) saves money from 12 items per year, as 12 items at £9.90 each would cost £118.80.

Can I pay for a PPC by Direct Debit?

Yes. You can spread the cost of a 12-month PPC over 10 monthly Direct Debit payments of approximately £11.16, making it easier to manage the cost.