Specsavers assumed I was entitled to a NHS voucher

med_tech3

I visited Specsavers today for a two yearly eye test and needed glasses for reading. The lady asked me if I was still at the same address. I said no and gave her my new address. She did not ask me about any other changes. She then said I had a NHS voucher towards my glasses. I thought this was normal for everyone as on my previous eye tests I have always received one.
When I got home, my boyfriend told me that I am not entitled to a voucher anymore as it is only for people receiving benefits.

Two years ago, at my last visit, I was on tax credits but since then I have changed jobs and no longer receive them.
What should I do? I signed two forms they put in front of me to do with my eye test - one blue, one orange and I ordered a 89 pound pair of glasses for 25 pound. If I knew I wasn't entitled to a voucher I would have bought a 25 pound pair.

What can I do? Specsavers never asked me about being on benefits and as I have not received any for about 18 months I never even thought about it.
The last thing I want is to be fined as I was happy to pay full price for my glasses but Specsavers told me (without confirmation) I had a voucher.

Thank you

elsien

In future read the form they put in front of you before signing it?

If you've only just ordered and don't want to pay full price it may be possible to cancel. Or you could tell them to cancel the NHS voucher and pay full price for what you've ordered. Try ringing them to see what they say, they'll still be open at the moment.

pmduk

They've always checked my entitlement to a free test even, well before it gets to the point of choosing frames and dispensing. Somehow, they've got the idea you're entitled to a free test and glasses. Why didn't you notice you hadn't paid for the test?

boo_star

Should have gone to, oh wait...

twhitehousescat

elsien wrote: »

In future read the form they put in front of you before signing it?

"and needed glasses for reading"

elsien

Then ask to have it explained instead. No one should be signing forms if they haven't got a clue what is in them.

Ladykernow

They did assume, but then you probably should have said i'm not on tax credits anymore. I'm sure if you explain to them sooner rather than later before they process the order and the voucher, everything should be fine. You'll just end up paying the full amount, but better than paying a fine.

Blackbeard_of_Perranporth

Last time I was at the {Optician, Dentist, Pharmacy] I was asked if I was entitled to whatever. It is quite simple, I said not yet, but soon I will be.

If you can pay your way, pay it. You are thieving from those in need!
Just in case you didn't know, I have prescription medication for my heart condition. I also pay for them!

DoaM

pmduk wrote: »

Why didn't you notice you hadn't paid for the test?

OP doesn't say where they live. If it's in Scotland then you don't pay for a 2-yearly test anyway.

Februarycat

Do you have a high lens prescription as you are entitled to a NHS voucher towards the cost of lens. I'm not on benefits but my prescription is high so get a free test and voucher towards lens.

TheTalkingDead

They dont ask they havent with me for the last 10yrs, you are correct, but its you who should know if your entitlment has changed and inform them of any changes or they will asume your details are correct at time of booking.