With the cost of living and energy bills rising, many Britons may delay a visit to the optician. Eye tests can cost between £20 and £100, depending on the provider. However, certain people can access free eye tests and optical vouchers through the NHS, particularly those of specific ages or claiming benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
According to the NHS, 10 groups of people automatically qualify for free NHS sight tests in England. These include children under 16, people aged 60 or over, those registered as blind or partially sighted, and individuals diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma. Additionally, people aged 40 or over who are the parent or sibling of someone with glaucoma, or those advised by an ophthalmologist that they are at risk of glaucoma, also qualify.
You may also qualify if you or your partner receives specific benefits, such as Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, Pension Credit Guarantee Credit, or Universal Credit (if you meet certain criteria). Dependants under 20 may also be eligible if you are claiming these benefits. The NHS adds: 'People named on an NHS certificate for partial help with health costs (HC3) may also get help with the cost of a private sight test.'
Optical vouchers are issued by an optician following an eye examination to help eligible people cover the cost of glasses or contact lenses. You will generally be eligible if you qualify for a free NHS sight test, are under 16, or are under 19 and in full-time education. Similarly, if you or a partner receive certain benefits, you might qualify for an NHS optical voucher.
To check eligibility for free NHS sight tests, glasses, or contact lenses, visit the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) website, which offers a quick, free eligibility test that takes around three minutes. If you have paid for an eye test but later find out you are eligible, you may be entitled to a refund. The NHS advises: 'If you paid for a sight test but think you may qualify for an NHS-funded sight test... ask the optometrist for a receipt... You'll need to download, print and return an HC5(O) refund form along with your original receipt.'
