NHS Low Income Scheme: HC2 and HC3 certificates explained
What HC2 and HC3 certificates cover, how household circumstances are assessed, and how to use the result correctly.
Last reviewed: 6 July 2026 · UK guidance
In brief
The NHS Low Income Scheme helps some people with specified NHS health costs. An HC2 certificate generally provides full help within the scheme; an HC3 certificate provides limited help, with maximum contributions printed on the certificate. It is not a general cash benefit.
Eligibility uses household income, capital and circumstances under current rules. Apply through the official national route and read the certificate dates and names carefully. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own charging arrangements, so check which costs the scheme affects where you live.
Know which costs may be included
The scheme can help with specified dental, optical, travel, wig, fabric-support and prescription costs depending on the nation and certificate. It does not cover private treatment or every expense connected with illness.
Complete the household assessment accurately
Provide the applicant, partner, dependants, income, savings and housing information requested. Explain recent changes and keep copies of evidence. Students and people with irregular income should use the guidance for their circumstances rather than guessing an annual figure.
Read an HC3 before paying
An HC3 states how much the patient may need to contribute towards different costs. Show it before treatment or purchase and ask the provider to calculate the correct patient amount. Do not assume “partial help” means the same percentage for everything.
Use refund routes on time
If a qualifying cost was paid while eligible or while waiting for a certificate, check the relevant refund form, evidence and deadline. Keep original receipts. A backdated certificate does not automatically produce a refund without a claim.
Report changes and renew
Note the expiry date and reapply if help is still needed. If the decision appears to use wrong information, use the contact or review route on the notice promptly.
Ask how an HC2 or HC3 applies
Use with an NHS cost adviser or provider.
I have an [HC2/HC3] certificate valid from [date] to [date] and need help with [dental, optical, travel or other cost]. Please confirm whether this item is covered, the amount I must pay, what evidence or refund form is required, and the claim deadline.
A practical checklist
- Apply through the official Low Income Scheme route.
- Check certificate names and dates.
- Read each HC3 contribution amount.
- Keep receipts and refund forms within deadline.
Check the current information
These are the most relevant official or specialist places to confirm live rules, availability and application details.
nhs.uk
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