Help with dental costs HC5(D) form - eligible?

TheGardener

HI
I have been advised by my dentist that I am likely to need some serious dental work (extractions, bridge, dentures etc)
I am not entitled to TC's (only CTC) and am not in receipt of any other means tested benefits. As a single parent on take home pay of 16.500 I am struggling and wondered if I stand a chance of any help with NHS costs if I fill in the form?

Indie_Kid

If your income is too high for help via tax credits, it would be too high if you filled in a HC1 form.

TheGardener

Hi - I understand that I am not eligible for the full exemption certificate. However, I was enquiring about the NHS low income scheme which may offer 'partial help' towards dental costs for those on a low income -the HC3 certificate. Are you saying I wouldn't be eligible for this at all unless I was eligible for some level of tax credits ?

Indie_Kid

The threshold for the HC1 form is much lower than tax credits.

TheGardener

the form I have been given is not a HC1 - its a HC5? I'm sorry I'm being a bit dim - if I was already eligible for free treatment as a recipient of TC - why would there be a separate low income scheme for 'partial help' that was only open to those who were already getting free help due to TC's anyway ?

sallypalma

that your income is too high for any help. My annual income is less than £10,000 a year and when I applied using the HC3 for help with my dental treatment I was told that I still had to pay over £120 towards the maximum NHS charge of £214.

It's a stupid situation, I know people who receive benefits who have a much higher income than I do that receive free treatment while I have to pay.

KxMx

HC5 (D) is for a refund of dental charges. This is for use after you have paid out for treatment will only be approved if you were eligible for help in the first place.

As this is currently unknown my advice is to get a HC1 and submit that. If you are granted partial help with health costs (HC3 certificate), you then present this to the Dentist at the time of treatment, and they will adjust the bill accordingly.

I have an HC3 and pay £50 odd before my treatment becomes free.

Everyone's circumstances are different I would definitely apply, it's worth a try.

TheGardener

Thanks folks - I'll submit the HC1 - I guess the worse that can happen is that they say no. I wasn't expecting free treatment but even a small amount towards the cost would be of enormous help.