Health cash plans
A health cash plan, often provided by an employer, refunds part or all of dental, optical, physiotherapy and consultation costs up to annual limits - but only when you send in the receipts.
Prescription costs
In England, a Prescription Prepayment Certificate covers every NHS prescription for a fixed price and pays for itself if you need more than one item a month. Prescriptions are free in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
NHS help with costs
Lower-income households can apply to the NHS Low Income Scheme (HC2/HC3 certificates) for help with dental, sight test and prescription costs.
Key dates
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| March | Check remaining cash plan and wellbeing allowances. |
| 5 April | UK tax year ends; many employer allowances reset. Send outstanding claims first. |
Keeping receipts with ViscaCare
Open Vault → Receipts and photograph any medical, pharmacy or dental receipt, or send it to Mia. Keep them alongside your medical records so they're easier to find when you need them. Paid ViscaCare Doctor receipts are saved automatically, and you'll see totals by category to track household healthcare spending.
Good to know
Receipts and totals can support eligible health cash-plan or private-insurance claims, but cover, limits and deadlines depend on your policy. Reimbursement isn't guaranteed. ViscaCare prepares your figures; it doesn't submit claims or pay refunds. Totals come from the receipts you've saved.
Common questions
Is there tax relief on medical expenses in the UK?
No. HMRC does not give income-tax relief on personal medical or dental costs. Savings come from NHS exemptions, a Prescription Prepayment Certificate in England, and claiming from a health cash plan or insurer where you have one.
When do cash plan allowances reset?
It depends on your plan. Many employer schemes run to the tax year, which ends on 5 April, so check your limits and send claims before they renew.
Does ViscaCare submit my cash plan claim?
No. ViscaCare keeps your receipts and totals by category so you can claim quickly. You submit claims to your plan provider.
Where these figures come from
Charges and thresholds change. We check these figures regularly, but always confirm the current rate with the official source before you rely on it. This page explains entitlements, costs and process - it is not medical advice.
Related guides
HC2 and HC3 certificates
Full or partial help with prescriptions, dental, sight tests and travel costs.
Read moreNHS Low Income Scheme
Who can apply, the savings limits, and how the HC1 assessment works.
Read moreNHS dental charges
The three bands, who is exempt, and how the nations differ.
Read moreRegister with a GP
What a practice can and cannot ask for, and what to do if you are refused.
Read more