Changes required to the passporting of individuals to Help with Health Costs as a result of the introduction of Universal Credit

The Department’s primary aim is to ensure that those most in need are able to access exemption from dental and ophthalmic costs and the remission of costs for travelling to and from hospital on referral following the introduction of Universal Credit.

The Department is proposing to introduce an additional criterion to the Help with Health Costs Scheme based on receipt of Universal Credit and with an associated earnings threshold.

This consultation process is seeking views on the proposed additional eligibility criterion with the aim of ensuring those most in need receive this very important benefit. Until changes to the eligibility criteria are introduced, those receiving Universal Credit can continue to receive support through the Low Income Scheme.

This new criterion will eventually replace five existing welfare benefit based criteria. The five benefits will be phased out and replaced by Universal Credit by March 2022.

Your views are sought on the questions set out in the response document provided.

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