The short version: Married Couple’s Allowance is a tax reduction for couples where one partner was born before 6th April 1935. It’s different from Marriage Allowance and gives a bigger saving, but only applies to this older age group.
How much can you save?
The allowance can reduce your tax bill by several hundred pounds a year. The exact amount depends on your income. Check gov.uk or use HMRC’s calculator for current figures.
Who can claim?
You need to be married or in a civil partnership, living together, and one of you must have been born before 6th April 1935. If you both were born after that date, you might qualify for Marriage Allowance instead, which has different rules.
What if you separate?
If you divorce or formally separate, the allowance stops at the end of that tax year. If you’re living apart due to circumstances like illness rather than a decision to separate, you might still be able to claim.
How do you claim?
Contact HMRC to apply. They’ll adjust your tax code so you get the benefit automatically through PAYE, or you can claim through Self Assessment.
Not sure which allowance applies to your situation? Get in touch and we’ll help you work it out.
