Retirement Pension and Benefit Specific Frequently Asked Questions

Q. I am aged over 60. Don't I get free treatment automatically?

A. NHS Prescriptions and sight tests are free to people aged 60 or over. If you need help with other health costs, you will need to complete form HC1. To request a form click here or telephone the Patient Services Customer Contact line on 0845 850 1166

Q. Why can't you get details of my benefits/pensions directly from the Department for Work and Pensions?

A. The NHS Business Services Authority is an independent special Health Authority within the National Health Service. We are not part of and have no administrative connections with the Department for Work and Pensions (formerly the DSS). There are data protection laws that prohibit access to information about your benefits to other agencies. This is why you are asked to provide the information in the HC1 form.

Q. I receive Pension Credit, do I automatically qualify for help with health costs?

A. If you receive Pension Credit guarantee credit, you will have a letter from the Department of Work and Pensions that tells you that you do not need to pay for your health costs. However, you might have to pay something towards a pair of glasses depending on the type of frame and lenses you choose.

If you receive Pension Credit savings credit only, you are not automatically entitled to free treatment, but you still might still qualify for some help under the NHS Low Income Scheme. To request an application form (HC1) click here or telephone the Patient Services Customer Contact Line on 0845 850 1166.

If you would like information about applying for the Pension Credit, please click here.


Q. Do I get free NHS treatment if I get Disability Living Allowance or Incapacity Benefit?

A. Disability Living Allowance and Incapacity Benefit do not automatically entitle recipients to help with health costs. Disability Living Allowance is not counted as income when calculating the amount of help you are entitled to.