Marriage Allowance: is it yours?
The lower earner hands over £1,260 of their tax-free allowance. Their partner pays up to £252 less tax a year. HMRC won't give it to you unless you ask.
Are you married or in a civil partnership?
Does one of you earn less than £12,570 a year?
Does the other one earn less than £50,270?
In Scotland, the higher earner must pay the starter, basic or intermediate rate, which usually means under £43,662.
Questions people ask
How much is Marriage Allowance worth?
The lower earner transfers £1,260 of their Personal Allowance to their partner, which can cut the partner's tax by up to £252 a year.
Can we backdate it?
Yes, by up to 4 previous tax years, as long as you met the rules in each of those years. Claiming before 5 April 2027 means you can still include 2022/23.
Who applies?
The lower earner. It's free on gov.uk. Search 'apply for Marriage Allowance'. You don't need to pay a claims company.
What if one of us was born before 6 April 1935?
Married Couple's Allowance may be worth more. You can't have both at the same time.
Sources
- HMRC: Apply for Marriage Allowance
Checked 5 October 2026. Explains how the rules work. Not tax advice for your situation.
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