THOUSANDS of married couple and civil partners in Worcestershire are missing out on the chance to pay less tax according to HM Revenue and Customs.

HMRC says around 267,000 eligible couples can apply for marriage allowance, which would provide a boost to the average family's finances by £212 each year helping to pay bills, or for a Valentine's Day treat.

HMRC says the process to apply has been simplified, and it takes only a few minutes for a couple to apply online at gov.uk/marriage-allowance.

Couples have up to four years to claim backdated annual allowances, to ensure as many as possible do not miss out.

Ruth Owen, director general, personal tax, HMRC, said: “Show your spouse you love them by applying for marriage allowance.

"A cash boost is always welcome, and whether you use it to treat your loved one to a romantic dinner, put it towards a cosy weekend break or just help pay the bills, marriage allowance means couples can save £212 on their tax bill every year."