Martin Lewis Reveals Cost-Saving Tips for Medical Purchases and Alerts on Welfare Notices

Martin Lewis, the renowned founder of MoneySavingExpert, has unveiled a useful strategy for reducing expenses on over-the-counter medicines at major retailers like Asda and Boots. Lewis explained in his latest informative dispatch how consumers can potentially save money by understanding the PL code displayed on medicine packets. Each code, he noted, is unique to the drug, signifying both the medication and its manufacturer.

An example provided by Lewis is the PL code 12063/0104, which indicates a cold and flu remedy available under various brand names, including those found at Asda and Boots. Despite differing packaging and pricing, the actual medication remains unchanged across brands. By identifying these codes, consumers can detect medicines that offer identical benefits at significantly lower prices.

In addition to this cost-saving tip, Lewis highlighted the potential for prescription medicine savings. In his ‘Money Tips’ communication, he suggested that consumers frequently purchasing prescription medications could benefit from a prepayment prescription certificate. He referred to this financial instrument as akin to a “prescription season ticket,” which could provide considerable savings for those obtaining multiple prescriptions monthly. The certificates are available as a three-month package costing £32.05 or a 12-month package priced at £114.50.

In another public advisory, Martin Lewis addressed the critical matter of administrative letters being issued by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). He warned individuals receiving tax credits, housing benefit, or employment support allowance, among others, not to overlook these letters. According to Lewis, failure to act on these notices can result in a cessation of benefit payments.

Lewis’s caution stems from governmental efforts to transition claimants of legacy benefits to the Universal Credit system. According to government statistics, over one-third of individuals making this transition have faced payment interruptions. The letters outline the essential steps required to switch over, typically giving recipients a three-month window to comply.

The finance expert stressed the importance of maintaining updated address information to ensure receipt of such critical correspondence. Recipients are advised to act promptly, as missing the deadline not only halts legacy benefits but also forfeits transitional protections exclusive to those applying within the designated timeframe.

The public figures, including Martin Lewis, encourage vigilance in managing both medication expenses and understanding governmental correspondence to mitigate financial detriment.