# Can NHS dentists charge a deposit?

Source: https://thelocaldentist.co.uk/answers/can-nhs-dentists-charge-a-deposit/
Updated: 2026-07-15

## Quick answer

An NHS dentist can ask you to pay your NHS band charge in advance — that is allowed, and many practices do. What they cannot do is charge more than the set band charge: no booking fees, no extra deposits on top, and no fines for missed NHS appointments. For private treatment the rules are different — a practice can take a deposit or charge a cancellation fee, as long as the terms were made clear before you agreed.

## Key facts

- Paying the NHS band charge upfront is allowed — it is prepayment, not an extra fee
- NHS charges are fixed: Band 1 £27.90, Band 2 £76.60, Band 3 £332.10 in England
- Practices cannot fine you for missing an NHS appointment
- They can decline to book further appointments after repeated no-shows
- Private deposits and cancellation fees are legal if agreed clearly in advance
- Overcharging for NHS treatment can be reported to NHS England or your ICB

Editorial content from The Local Dentist — not clinical advice.