Answers · UK 2025/26
How do I claim Marriage Allowance in the UK?
Apply at gov.uk/marriage-allowance. The lower-earning spouse transfers £1,260 of Personal Allowance to the higher earner — saving up to £252/year. Both must be married/civil partners. Lower earner under £12,570, higher earner basic-rate (under £50,270). Can backdate 4 tax years.
Full answer
Marriage Allowance lets a lower-earning spouse or civil partner transfer £1,260 (10% of Personal Allowance) to a basic-rate partner, reducing their tax bill by up to £252/year. Eligibility: married or civil-partnered (not just cohabiting); lower earner's income under £12,570 (Personal Allowance); higher earner is a basic-rate taxpayer (£12,571-£50,270 in England/NI/Wales, or up to £43,662 in Scotland for basic/intermediate). Apply at gov.uk/marriage-allowance — takes 5 minutes online via Government Gateway. Can backdate 4 tax years if eligible — potentially £1,260 lump sum. Once claimed, continues automatically until you cancel or circumstances change. If your income rises into higher-rate, cancel it. If you separate or divorce, cancellation rules apply.
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This answer is informational only and does not constitute financial, tax or legal advice. Figures are for the 2025/26 UK tax year. See our methodology and sources.