This is guidance based on published NHS rules. For help with costs, contact the NHS Business Services Authority on 0300 330 1343.

Updated 17 April 2026

NHS Low Income Scheme: HC1, HC2 and HC3 Explained

If your savings are under £16,000 and your income is low, you may pay nothing or reduced NHS dental charges. Here is how to apply and what to expect.

Who is this scheme for?

The HC1/HC2 scheme is for people who are not on qualifying benefits (Income Support, Pension Credit Guarantee Credit, income-based JSA, income-related ESA, or qualifying Universal Credit) but who have a low income and limited savings.

Typical applicants: self-employed on a low income, part-time workers, people between jobs, students in higher education, carers not in paid work.

HC2 vs HC3: what you can get

HC2 CERTIFICATE

Full help

  • All NHS dental treatment is free
  • Free NHS prescriptions
  • Free NHS sight tests
  • Help with glasses voucher

HC3 CERTIFICATE

Partial help

  • Certificate states maximum you pay per course
  • NHS covers the rest above your maximum
  • Also reduces prescription costs
  • Can be appealed if you expected HC2

The HC1 form walkthrough

1

Get the HC1 form

Available from nhsbsa.nhs.uk (download or request by post), Jobcentre Plus offices, most dental practices, pharmacies, NHS hospitals, and some GPs. Free of charge.

2

Gather your information

You will need: income details for the last 2 months (payslips, benefit letters, tax returns if self-employed), rent or mortgage payments, council tax amount, utility bills, any savings or capital (bank statements may be requested), and household composition (who lives with you and their income).

3

Complete the form

Fill in all sections accurately. The form asks about everyone in your household, not just yourself. Income from all sources counts. Do not understate savings or overstate outgoings; the NHSBSA cross-references against HMRC and DWP records.

4

Send to NHSBSA

Post to: NHS Business Services Authority, Bridge House, 152 Pilgrim Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6SN. Keep a copy of your completed form before sending.

5

Wait approximately 18 working days

The NHSBSA aims to process applications within 18 working days. You will receive your HC2 or HC3 certificate, or a rejection letter, by post. If you need treatment urgently while waiting, speak to your dentist.

6

Use your certificate at the dentist

Show your HC2 or HC3 certificate at reception before your appointment begins. Keep a photocopy for your own records. The certificate is valid for the period shown on it (typically 6 months to 5 years).

Common application mistakes

Frequently asked questions

What is the HC1 form?
The HC1 form is the application form for the NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS). You fill it in to apply for help with health costs including NHS dental treatment, sight tests, glasses, and prescriptions. If approved, you receive either an HC2 certificate (full help, all costs covered) or an HC3 certificate (partial help, states maximum you pay per course).
How do I get an HC1 form?
HC1 forms are available free of charge from Jobcentre Plus offices, most NHS dental practices, most GP surgeries, most pharmacies, NHS hospitals, and online from nhsbsa.nhs.uk/HC1. You can also request one by calling the NHS Business Services Authority on 0300 330 1343.
How long does it take to get an HC2 or HC3 certificate?
The NHS Business Services Authority aims to process HC1 applications within approximately 18 working days (around 4 weeks). The certificate is sent by post. If you need dental treatment urgently while awaiting your certificate, speak to your dentist, who may be able to note the pending application.
What is the difference between HC2 and HC3?
An HC2 certificate means full help: you pay nothing for NHS dental treatment. An HC3 certificate means partial help: the certificate states a maximum amount you pay per course of dental treatment; the NHS covers the rest. The level of help depends on the NHSBSA's assessment of your income, outgoings, and household circumstances.
What happens if my HC1 application is rejected?
If rejected, or if you receive HC3 when you expected HC2, you have the right to request a review within one month of the decision letter. Write to the NHSBSA requesting a review and include any additional evidence of income or outgoings you have. The NHSBSA will reassess your application.
Do I need to renew my HC2 or HC3 certificate?
Yes. HC2 and HC3 certificates are valid for a set period (typically 6 months to 5 years depending on your circumstances). When your certificate is approaching expiry, you need to submit a new HC1 application. There is no separate renewal form; you complete a fresh HC1.
Can students apply for HC1?
Yes. Students who are not covered by the under-19 qualifying education exemption (i.e. university students) can apply for HC1 if their income and savings are below the thresholds. Student loans are partially counted as income in the assessment. Many full-time university students on student loans alone do qualify for HC2.
Does the HC1 scheme cover private dental treatment?
No. The HC2 and HC3 certificates only apply to NHS dental treatment at NHS charge rates. They cannot be used to reduce the cost of private dental treatment.

Related guides

Free treatment eligibilityPenalty appealsCosts by age groupAll NHS dental charges