If you are blind or severely sight impaired, it is worth checking whether you can claim Blind Person’s Allowance for 2026/27.
It is one of the most commonly overlooked tax reliefs available in the UK. Not because they don’t need the money. Just because nobody told them it existed, or they assumed it would be applied automatically. It won’t be. HMRC will not add it to your tax code unless you ask.
So if you or someone in your family is registered as severely sight-impaired or blind, this guide is for you.
You’ll get to know:
- What is allowance for blindness
- Who can claim blind person’s allowance?
- How do I claim blind person’s allowance?
- And much more…
What Is Allowance For Blindness?
Blind Person’s Allowance is a valuable UK tax relief designed to help individuals with significant sight loss. It adds an extra tax-free amount on top of your standard Personal Allowance. It basically increases the amount of money you can earn each year before you start paying Income Tax.
For the 2026/27 tax year, the Blind Person’s Allowance is set at £3,250. This is an increase from the previous year’s rate of £3,130.
Everyone gets a personal allowance of £12,570 already. If you successfully claim blind person’s allowance, your total tax-free income becomes £15,820. That means you’d pay no income tax on anything you earn up to that amount.
Who Can Claim Blind Person’s Allowance?
To qualify for the Blind Person’s Allowance, you must be a UK resident for tax purposes. Also, the rules depend on where you live. The main Blind Person’s Allowance eligibility test is different in England and Wales from Scotland and Northern Ireland. So you must meet the following criteria:
England and Wales
You must be registered with your local council as blind or severely sight-impaired. Also, you must possess a Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI) or a doctor’s evidence.
Scotland and Northern Ireland
You do not need to be registered. To apply for the allowance for blindness here, you simply need a certificate from an ophthalmic surgeon. That certificate must state that your vision loss prevents you from performing work where eyesight is essential.
Other Things Worth Knowing
- According to HMRC guidance, eligible individuals can claim Blind Person’s Allowance and may backdate claims where permitted.
- There is no minimum age. Children can qualify, too, though the allowance would likely be transferred to a parent in that case.
- Both employees and self-employed individuals can claim Blind Person’s Allowance
- You need to be a UK resident for tax purposes.
How Do I Claim Blind Person’s Allowance?
If you are wondering how do I claim Blind Person’s Allowance, well, claiming blind person’s tax allowance is actually fairly simple. But you do have to make the first move.
Step 1: Get Your Documents Ready
Before you contact HMRC, make sure you have the following information ready:
- Your National Insurance number
- Your registration number from your local council (England and Wales)
- Your Certificate of Vision Impairment or a doctor’s letter confirming severe sight impairment
Step 2: Contact HMRC
The method you choose to contact HMRC depends on whether you usually file a tax return or pay tax through your employer:
By Phone
Yes, you claim Blind Person’s Allowance over the phone. Call the HMRC Income Tax Helpline directly at 0300 200 3300 (or textphone 0300 200 3319). This is the fastest method for standard employees or pensioners.
Online via Self Assessment
If you are self-employed or file a tax return for other reasons, you do not need to call. You can state your claim directly on your annual return. On the main standard tax return form, find the section for other reliefs and look for page TR4. You need to fill in boxes 13 to 16. If you use the short tax return form instead, use boxes 10.1 and 10.2.
(Note: these box numbers may change. So, remember to enter the relevant details in the Blind Person’s Allowance section of your Self Assessment tax return.)
- By Post: If you prefer mail, write a letter containing your National Insurance number, tax reference code, and a statement requesting the allowance. Send it to: Pay As You Earn and Self Assessment, HM Revenue and Customs, BX9 1AS.
If you are looking for how to claim Blind Person’s Allowance online, you can find official steps and contact details on the GOV.UK Blind Person’s Allowance page, or check the RNIB Tax Advice resources for direct support.
What Happens After You Claim Blind Person’s Allowance?
Once HMRC processes your claim, they update your tax code. Your employer then uses the new tax code. This will reduce the tax taken from your pay. It usually takes a few weeks. If there has been a delay and you have overpaid in the meantime, HMRC will refund the difference either through your pay or directly.
If you’re on Self Assessment, the allowance reduces your tax bill when you file your return.
Common Mistakes When Claiming Blind Person’s Allowance
In order to claim Blind Persons Allowance, make sure not to avoid these mistakes:
- Assuming HMRC Applies It Automatically: In almost all cases, you need to claim Blind Person’s Allowance yourself.
- Not Updating HMRC: Changes in circumstances should be reported promptly.
- Missing Earlier Years: Many people forget to check whether backdated claims are possible.
- Failing to Transfer Unused Allowance: Couples sometimes miss additional tax savings by not reviewing transfer options.
- Keeping Poor Records: Always retain any certificates or supporting documentation.
Can I Claim Blind Person’s Allowance if I am Partially Sighted?
If you are wondering how to apply for the partially sighted allowance, know that you cannot claim Blind Person’s Allowance directly. This is because a specific allowance for partial sight does not exist.
However, you should still check with your local council for other potential benefits. You might still qualify for a reduced TV licence fee or discounts on travel and local transport.
Also, some people who consider themselves “partially sighted” may actually qualify to claim Blind Person’s Allowance. So don’t rule yourself out. You must get a proper assessment first.
What Is the Blind Person’s Allowance for the 2026/27 Tax Year?
If you are wondering how much tax you can save with the Blind Person’s Allowance, here is a clear example.
The Blind Person’s Allowance for the 2026/27 tax year is £3,250. This is an additional tax-free amount added directly on top of your standard Personal Allowance (which is £12,570). So it means you can earn up to £15,820 before paying any Income Tax.
How to Transfer an Unused Blind Person’s Allowance to a Spouse?
One of the best design features of the Blind Persons Allowance UK system is its flexibility. If you do not earn enough money to use up your extra tax relief, you do not lose it. Because you can pass the remaining balance to your spouse or civil partner. And this applies even if your partner has perfect vision!
You just need to inform HMRC during your standard phone call, or submit an official election using HMRC Form 575.
Remember that to transfer the unused Blind Person’s Allowance, your spouse or civil partner must live with you for at least part of that tax year. And unlike the standard Marriage Allowance, your partner does not need to be a basic-rate taxpayer to receive this transfer.
What Happens if Both Civil Partners or Spouses Are Blind?
If you and your civil partner or spouse both qualify to claim Blind Person’s Allowance, you each get your own separate allowance.
For the 2026/27 tax year, this grants your household a combined £6,500 in extra tax-free income. Yes, on top of your personal allowances. And if either of you cannot use your full allocation, that person can still transfer their remaining balance to the other.
Can I Backdate a Blind Person’s Allowance claim?
Yes. You can backdate a Blind Person’s Allowance claim. HMRC allows you to backdate the allowance for up to four tax years from the end of the current tax year. Hence, if you qualify, you may be entitled to a tax refund for those previous years.
The Bottom Line
If you qualify, claim Blind Person’s Allowance as soon as possible, because it can reduce your tax bill and may even help your spouse or civil partner.
For 2026/27, the allowance is £3,250. And it is not given automatically. The claim needs to be made directly with HMRC.
How Accotax Can Help
If you need help to claim Blind Person’s Allowance or with any accounting service, such as bookkeeping, VAT, or year-end accounts, visit Accotax.
We offer a range of packages designed to fit your unique needs.
Reach out, get an instant quote, and let us help you stay compliant!
Disclaimer: The information about “How To Claim Blind Person’s Allowance? 2026/27 Guide” is provided in this article including text and graphics. It does not intend to disregard any of the professional advice.
