Free eye tests on Universal Credit and benefits.

If you get Universal Credit, income-related ESA or Pension Credit Guarantee Credit, you could get a free NHS eye test and an NHS voucher towards glasses. Here's how it works at Direct Vision in Great Barr and Sheldon.

Book your free eye test All NHS eligibility

Who qualifies?

In England you get a free NHS eye test and an optical voucher towards glasses if you, or your partner, get:

Universal Credit, with take-home pay of £435 or less in your last assessment period, or £935 or less if your Universal Credit includes a child element or you have limited capability for work. For couples it's your combined take-home pay.
Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
A valid HC2 certificate (full help with health costs)

If you have an HC3 certificate you may get help towards the cost. New style ESA or new style Jobseeker's Allowance on their own don't qualify. Rules checked against NHS Business Services Authority guidance, April 2026.

What your NHS voucher gets you.

Choose any pair from our dedicated NHS voucher range and pay nothing. Or put your voucher towards any of our complete pairs, from £59, £99, £149 or from £219, and just pay the difference. A single vision voucher is currently worth £42.40, and it's worth more for stronger prescriptions.

See our glasses

What to bring

Please bring proof of your benefit or certificate, for example your Universal Credit statement, award letter or HC2 certificate. If you're not sure whether you qualify, call us before your appointment and we'll help: Great Barr 0121 325 0665, Sheldon 0121 742 9599. You can also check the latest Universal Credit rules on the NHS Business Services Authority website.

Your questions answered

Can I get a free eye test on Universal Credit?

Yes, if your take-home pay in your last assessment period was £435 or less, or £935 or less if your award includes a child element or you have limited capability for work. You'll also get an NHS voucher towards glasses.

Do I need to bring proof?

Yes, please bring proof of your benefit or certificate to your appointment, such as your Universal Credit statement or HC2 certificate.

My earnings change every month. What then?

It's based on your most recent assessment period, so whether you qualify can change month to month. If in doubt, call us and we'll talk it through.

Can I use the voucher for contact lenses?

At Direct Vision, NHS optical vouchers are used towards glasses.

Do my children get free eye tests too?

Yes. All children under 16, and under 19s in full-time education, get free NHS eye tests and a voucher towards glasses, whatever your income. See children's eye tests.