Fares to hospital for treatment
If you have to travel to hospital for treatment, you can claim a
refund of your bus or train fares, petrol costs or, in exceptional
circumstances, taxi fares, if the following conditions apply:
-
you or your partner receive Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance or the Guarantee Credit of Pension Credit
-
you or your partner receive Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit (in certain cases)
-
you receive a War Disablement Pension and are being treated for your war disability
-
your weekly income is low enough.
If you need someone to travel with you to hospital for medical reasons, you can get their travel costs paid as well. If you are not receiving any of the above benefits, but are still on a low income, see the Low Income Scheme. This may be another way to get help with your fares to hospital.
How can I claim?
You can usually get your refund at the hospital – check the procedure when you arrive. You will need to bring proof of your entitlement to one of the above benefits, such as your payment book or benefit award letter. You will also need to bring proof of your travel costs, for example, tickets or receipts. Some voluntary organisations have volunteer drivers who can give people lifts to hospital and other destinations. Check at your local library for details of voluntary organisations in your area.