Martin Lewis and the Money Saving Expert team have revealed that around one million people overpaid for their prescriptions in the 12 months to April 2021, missing out on average savings of £40. With the cost of living crisis worsening, this tip could prove vital.
An NHS prescription prepayment certificate (PPC), also known as a season ticket, costs £108.10 and covers unlimited prescriptions for a year. This compares to a single prescription charge of £9.35, meaning those needing 12 or more prescriptions annually can save money.
The PPC can be paid via direct debit in 10 monthly instalments of £10.81 each, making it more manageable. However, with potential price rises in April, Lewis advises purchasing before the deadline to lock in the current rate.
Prescription charges in England have risen by 26.35% over the past decade. If the trend continues, a single prescription could increase to £9.57 this year. Prescriptions remain free in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
