NHS exemption certificate qualifying question

emily123

Would appreciate some help please. Last tax year I took home 16000 and didn't qualify for free dental due to the 15000 odd cap. This year I will earn 14000 (same wage every month - changed jobs in November 2018). I notified tax credits of my new income.

Do you get an NHS exemption certificate (my tooth is nagging) based on this years or last years income? At what point do they decide you aren't earning enough and qualify?

On a separate note my dental practice changed my dentist from an NHS one to a private one when I went over the earnings threshold briefly last year (17/18 I was under 15k). Do I have to request an NHS one if I qualify? Would probably be best to ask my dentist but I don't think of these questions until after the kids are in bed 😂

elsien

You would need an NHS dentist. Any private treatment would still be charged to you.

tacpot12

I think the income question relates to you actual income at the time you apply. So providing your income has dropped for the foreseeable future to this new lower level, you should get help.

You can check this by calling the NHS BSA Customer Enquiry line on 0300 330 134. You might ask them how many weeks or months of payslips will they ask to see if they ask for evidence of your income.

I'd be grateful if you would post the answer as a reply if you are able to find out.

emily123

So... thanks tacpot12, I called them. The number is 0300 330 1347. They said income is based on last tax years because arguably I could get a job with a better income soon and earn over 16k this year also.

I did research dental help and I mentioned the HC1 (low income scheme) form to the lady, she said they don't deal with them but that if I fill in the form then I may get a HC2 (full cost covered) or a HC3 (partial help) award. So I'll give that a go because I'm not earning a lot at the mo and could do with some help.

Thanks again and I hope this info helps someone else