Hi, my name is Gail2018! Income AND Contribution

Gail2018

I have been to the dentist and shown my benefit papers.  They told me I was exempt.  I had treatment and a month later a letter arrived with a penalty of £100+ £20.60 for the treatment.  I rang the dentist and the NHS no.  immediately, paid the £20.60 and appealed the £100.  They refused and said it was my fault and I had to pay the £100 penalty, even after I explained the Dentist had seen all my papers.  I’m told there are two types of this benefit, income based and contribution based.  I never knew this, and neither did the dentists office.  They have backed me up an said it is an honest mistake, but I’m really worried about having to pay £100, it will be such a struggle.  Anyone else have this problem?

CockneyRebel

Hi Gail and welcome

The dentist should have been aware that only income related ESA enititles you to free treatment and other NHS services

If you are on a low income you can apply for an HC2 certificate

CR

Gail2018

Thank you CR.
you would certainly think so wouldn’t you! ☹️

poppy123456

It's not really a dentist receptionists responsibility to know which type allows for free treatment/prescriptions. This is down to the person claiming the benefit. It's your responsibility.

Gail2018

I realise that now Poppy.  But not helpful, a bit like ‘close the gate’ when the horse has bolted!  Won’t make that mistake again.  I’ve spoken to her an she didn’t know there were 2 types of this benefit.  Advice shouldn’t have been given to us in the first place.  The rules are changed so often it’s hard to keep up!