JSA(IB) & Health Costs

maxriz

Hi all,

I am receiving JSA(IB) and understand from some research I have done that I can claim for;

a free eye test
optical voucher
travel to hospital costs

My question is, where/who do I speak to to get these? The various documents that I have read do no explain the process. Any help would be very much appreciated.

Kind regards,

elainey_2

When you go to the optician's, state that you are in reciept of JSA (if at all possible, take some proof such as the benefit letter with the rate of JSA on, as they may ask for this), and the optician will take it from there. This also applies to the dentist and if you are getting a prescription.

As for help with hospital travel costs, your best bet is to ask the hospital as to how to do this.

Hope this helps

Love Elaine xxx

NASA_2

I thought a HC1 would be required for those things.

elainey_2

ESA wrote: »

I thought a HC1 would be required for those things.

Hi,

The HC1 is for help with health costs if you are on a low income. If you are on certain benefits including income based JSA, you automatically get free prescriptions, eye tests, free glasses etc.... Therefore you don't need the HC1 to claim in this case.

HTH

Love Elaine xxx

maxriz

Hi Elainey,

Just a quick note to thank you for your help, it is much appreciated.

Kind regards,

Max

Nigella_2

You can claim at the NHS hospital or clinic at the time of your appointment. You'll be paid back immediately in cash, when you show any of the following:

• proof of a qualifying benefit (like an award notice)
• a tax credit exemption certificate (you'll get this automatically if you qualify)
• a certificate showing you qualify for the NHS low income support scheme

I have passed a counter at a NHS hospital for this.

mummytofour

I had to apply for mine and I was on IS.

maxriz

Thanks very much Nigella, much appreciated.

pippin49

Hospital cashiers office will refund travel costs. Only bus fares though. If you are unable to travel by bus your Gp will arrange free ambulance transport. All eye tests are now free, what you should get is part payment towards new glasses.

clairec79

Make sure you keep the ticket/receipt though as you need to prove you paid it (so don't let the driver etc keep it)