Eye Tests whilst on Incapacity Benefit?

[Mrs Supersaver 1]

:o Hi, does anyone know if I am entitled to help with an Eye Test whilst on Incapacity Benefit? No other benefits.

Nhs testing done Dec 05. Am on a lot of medications some of them new, and have noticed quite a difference with sight in last 2 months.

Paid a visit to opticians today and 'told' can't have test until Nov '07, I asked why? Was told other test not long ago. I could have one if I paid £27.50.

Anyone help out please? :o

[cattie]

You don't presently qualify for a free eye test as you are not on a means tested benefit such as income support.

However it's possible you could qualify because of being on a low income & you would need a form called something like HC1 to apply. The savings limits that apply to means tested benefits are the same for help with these health costs. If you do qualify I think you may also get help with prescription costs as well as dental treatment.

[Mrs Supersaver 1]

:o
Many thanks Cattie, didn't know about HC1 will look into it before my test on Saturday morning.

Am perscription exempt, as I have 4 x chronic illnesses that come under 'exemption' thank goodness.:j

Thanks
xx

[digger3]

I think it is a HC1 form and you fill it in to get the HC2 certificate.You then send it off to be assessed, so I don't think you'll get it back before Saturday.Might be worth mentioning your illnesses to the optician ( if you havn't already) as I think some diseases qualify for more regular eye tests