NHS Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) Savings Calculator
Calculate if an NHS Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) saves you money. Single prescription costs £9.90. 3-month PPC: £31.25. Annual PPC: £111.60.
Should You Buy an NHS PPC?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an NHS Prescription Prepayment Certificate?
A PPC lets you pay a single upfront fee that covers unlimited NHS prescription charges for 3 months (£31.25) or 12 months (£111.60) in 2025/26.
How much is one NHS prescription in 2026?
£9.90 per prescription item from April 2024. If you need 4 or more items in 3 months, a 3-month PPC saves money.
Who gets free NHS prescriptions?
People aged 60+, under 16, 16-18 in full-time education, pregnant or recently gave birth, certain medical conditions (e.g. diabetes, epilepsy), or receiving qualifying benefits.
How do I apply for a PPC?
Apply online at nhsbsa.nhs.uk, by phone (0300 330 1341), or pick up a FP95 form at a pharmacy. You can pay in instalments with the annual PPC.
Can I pay for a PPC monthly?
Yes, the annual PPC (£111.60) can be paid as an initial payment plus 10 monthly direct debits, making it easier to manage.
Does a PPC cover dental treatment?
No, the prescription PPC only covers prescription charges. NHS dental charges are separate.
What if I forget to get a PPC before paying?
You can claim a refund if you buy a PPC within 30 days of paying for an eligible prescription. Keep your receipts.
Are there condition-specific exemption certificates?
Yes — if you have certain long-term conditions (e.g. thyroid disorders, Addison's disease), you can get a Medical Exemption Certificate (MedEx) entitling you to free prescriptions.
Does my PPC cover prescriptions in Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland?
Prescriptions are free in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland regardless. Your English PPC only applies to prescriptions dispensed in England.
How much does the prescription charge increase each year?
The NHS prescription charge is set annually in the Spring Budget. It has risen from £9.65 to £9.90 since 2024.
Can I get help paying for prescriptions if I'm on low income?
Yes — apply for the NHS Low Income Scheme (HC1 form) which may entitle you to a full or partial NHS HC2 certificate covering prescriptions, dental, optical, and other charges.
Does a PPC cover all types of prescriptions?
It covers standard NHS prescription items. It does not cover over-the-counter medicines, private prescriptions, or items specifically excluded from NHS charging.