With inflation rising and the cost of living crisis continuing to squeeze household budgets, many people are trying to save money wherever they can. However, some may not even realise they’re eligible to knock hundreds of pounds off oneparticular health bill.

People who don’t qualify for free prescriptionsbut do receivemultiple medicationseach month could benefit from the NHS’ prescriptionprepayment certificate(PPC). This scheme allows people to pay for their medicationupfront at a discounted rate.

These are currently offered as:

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• Three-month PPC for £32.05


• 12-month PPC for £114.50


• HRT PPC for £19.80

Currently, the standard NHS prescription charge is £9.90 per item in England. This rate has been frozen for 2026/2027.

For people who pay for one prescription a month, this will cost them £29.70 over three months or £118.80 for the full year, meaning a PPC won’t save them money and could actually cost them more in some cases.

However, if you pay for two prescriptions a month, this works out to £59.40 over three months or £237.60 over 12 months. Having a PPC in this situation would save £123.10 a year.

In essence, PPCs tend to only work for people with two or more prescriptions each month and the more prescriptions they need, the higher their potential savings will be using a PPC instead. For example, people with four monthly prescription items could save over £360 a year.

PPCs cover all NHS prescriptions, including NHS dental prescriptions, regardless of how many items you need. However, there are some other health items it doesn’t cover, such as wigs or fabric supports.

The HRT PPC covers an unlimited number of some HRT medications for 12 months. This includes whether the HRT is prescribed for something other than menopause symptoms.

You can apply for a PPC online, it will start from the day you submit your application unless you request a different date. If you’ve had to pay for prescriptions while waiting for your PPC you may be able to apply for a refund.

You can also apply using the PPC order line on 0300 330 1341, which will be valid from the day you make the call, and some pharmacies may be able to sell you a 3-month PPC or the HRT PPC, which will be valid from the day you purchase it.

Once you receive your PPC, you’ll need to take it with you to the pharmacy and show it whenever you are collecting prescriptions. If your details do no match what is on your prescription or the PPC is invalid, you may receive a penalty charge. More information can be found on the NHSand NHSBSA websites.