By using the Buy an NHS PPC service means you agree to the following terms and conditions.
Definitions
'You' means the person named on the PPC.
Legal identity
The NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA). We are an Arm's Length Body of the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). Our head office is:
Stella House
Goldcrest Way
Newburn Riverside
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE15 8NY
Your PPC
You can only:
- buy a PPC if you live in England
- use the PPC for your own NHS prescriptions
PPCs cover any items prescribed on an NHS prescription apart from support tights.
You show the PPC as evidence of your entitlement to free NHS prescriptions.
Before you buy
You should check if:
- you are entitled to free NHS prescriptions
- a Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) PPC is more suitable - it covers certain HRT medicines
Cost of a PPC
The cost of a PPC is the price at the time you buy it. This is regardless of the start date requested. DHSC determines the cost of a PPC and it can change.
Certificate length
A PPC is valid for 3 or 12 months.
PPC start date
You can choose the start date of your PPC. This can be up to one calendar month before or after the date you buy it.
If you do not specify a start date, your PPC will start from the date you buy it.
Getting your PPC
You’ll get your digital PPC by email straight away if you give an email address.
If you do not have an email address you can print your certificate if you apply online. If you apply over the phone or in a pharmacy we’ll send you a paper certificate in the post. You’ll get this within 10 working days of your application.
Errors or changes of circumstances
It's important your details are correct and kept up to date. Contact us if:
- there is an error on your certificate
- you change your name or address
If your details do no match what is on your prescription, you may receive a penalty charge.
PPC cancellations
You cannot cancel your PPC after it has been issued.
If you pay for your PPC in instalments and you wish to cancel your Direct Debit, contact us. If you cancel your Direct Debit, you may have an outstanding balance to pay. We'll contact you if this happens.
If you become exempt from NHS prescription charges you may be able to get a refund.
PPC refunds
You may be able to claim a full or partial refund if you become entitled to free NHS prescriptions. The amount of refund depends on:
- how long your PPC is valid for
- when and how your circumstances change
You need to apply for a refund within 3 months from when you became entitled to free NHS prescriptions.
For full refund details, contact us or check the Information for patients leaflet (HC11) (PDF: 242KB).
NHS prescription charge refund
You may get an NHS prescription charge refund if:
- you have an NHS receipt and refund form (FP57)
- your PPC covers the date you paid for your NHS prescription
Ask for an FP57 when you pay for your NHS prescription. You cannot get one later. The FP57 tells you how to claim.
You need to apply for a refund within 3 months of paying the prescription charge.
Paying in one single payment
You can buy a 3 or 12 month PPC in full online, by phone and in some pharmacies.
Your PPC will not automatically renew.
Paying by Direct Debit
If you buy a 12 month PPC online or by phone, you can pay in 10 monthly instalments by Direct Debit. This payment option is not available in pharmacies.
By selecting Direct Debit, you are entering into a commitment to pay all of the instalments.
You cannot choose the date we collect your first payment. You can change your monthly payment date after we collect your first instalment.
Direct Debits which are returned as unpaid due to insufficient funds may be re-presented within 10 working days.
If we take a Direct Debit payment from your bank without your agreement you are entitled to make an indemnity claim at your bank. They will refund your money immediately. This is part of the Direct Debit Guarantee.
We may refuse to accept payment for a 12 month PPC by Direct Debit instalments in certain circumstances.
Direct Debit renewals
If you pay by Direct Debit your PPC will normally automatically renew when it expires.
If you do not want your PPC to automatically renew, cancel your Direct Debit at your bank after making all payments. You must also contact us to tell us. If you do not tell us your PPC may be renewed even if you do not want it.
When Direct Debits will not automatically renew
Your PPC will not automatically renew if:
- you are 60 or will turn 60 within 9 months of your current PPCs expiry date
- the Direct Debit was set up by phone and paid by a third party
- your PPC is not fully paid for
- the Direct Debit has been cancelled
Direct Debit Guarantee
The Direct Debit Guarantee
- This Guarantee is offered by all banks and building societies that accept instructions to pay Direct Debits
- If there are any changes to the amount, date or frequency of your Direct Debit the NHS Business Services Authority will notify you 10 working days in advance of your account being debited or as otherwise agreed. If you request the NHS Business Services Authority to collect a payment, confirmation of the amount and date will be given to you at the time of the request.
- If an error is made in the payment of your Direct Debit, by the NHS Business Services Authority or your bank or building society, you are entitled to a full and immediate refund of the amount paid from your bank or building society.
- If you receive a refund you are not entitled to, you must pay it back when the NHS Business Services Authority asks you to. - You can cancel a Direct Debit at any time by simply contacting your bank or building society. Written confirmation may be required. Please also notify us.