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Free eye tests

Including Specsavers and Boots

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What to look out for with prescriptions

By law you're entitled to your prescription after having an eye test and cannot be forced to buy glasses or contact lenses from the retailer the optician works for. However some opticians carry out extra assessments such as eye photos, for which they may charge, so always double check the total price in advance. Prescriptions have a 'lifespan' of two years.

Pay less for specs

If it turns out you do need a new or different prescription don't make a purchase straight away. First see our Cheap Glasses deals and Cheap Contact Lenses guide to make sure you get the best deal possible.

Do you qualify for a free eye test on the NHS?

Some people are always entitled to free eye tests, including:

  • Anyone under 16 (or up to 19 if in full time education)

  • Anyone over 60, those with certain medical conditions (for example, diabetes or glaucoma)

  • Those claiming certain benefits (for instance, income-based jobseeker's allowance or income support).

What's more if you live in Scotland, eye tests have been free for everyone since 2006. For full information, see the NHS website.

Martin's Money Mantras

Use them

Before spending

If you answer 'NO' to any of the following questions, don't buy.

Are you

Not skint? Ask:

Will I use it?

Is it worth it?

Are you

Skint? Ask:

Do I need it?

Can I afford it?

Free protection for all shopping!

There's a little-known piece of legislation that turns any credit card into a financial self-defence superhero. 'Section 75' of the Consumer Credit Act means your plastic must protect anything you buy for more than £100 for free, so if there's a problem or the company goes bust, you can still get your money back.
And although Section 75 doesn't apply to debit cards, there is something else to fall back on if you've paid using a debit card, or used a credit card for a purchase under £100. Known as Chargeback, this is part of banks' and card companies' internal rules and not a legal requirement. Read full details of Section 75 or Chargeback, plus how to claim, in our guides.
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