Get your tax sorted before new Making Tax Digital kicks in

Attention all tradesmen, van drivers and sole traders, there’s just two months to go before Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax comes into effect for anyone earning over £50,000 in self-employed income.

From 6 April 2026, you’ll need to keep digital records and send HMRC quarterly updates instead of one big Self Assessment return in January. But now’s the time to get ready – not next year.

Here’s a reminder from Craig Ogilvie, MTD Director at HMRC: “Tax is changing, now’s the time to make sure you’re set up. MTD spreads your tax admin throughout the year, making it easier to stay on top of things – no more last-minute January panics."

"There are free software options available, and those already testing MTD say it’s straightforward once you get used to it. Don’t leave it until the deadline. Visit makingtaxdigital.campaign.gov.uk to find out more and get started today.”

Making Tax Digital - What You Need to Know

• MTD starts April 2026 for sole traders and landlords earning over £50,000
• You’ll need compatible software (there are free and paid options)
• You’ll send four simple quarterly updates instead of one yearly return
• Your software will automatically calculate your estimated tax bill, helping you manage cash flow and avoid surprises
• If you already use spreadsheets or accounting tools, you can connect them to MTD software

Why You Should Act Now

Waiting until the end of the month is a mistake, computer systems get notoriously bogged down and broken as people rush to sort themselves out.

Join HMRC’s testing programme now and get familiar with the system while there’s support available.

You’ll have time to find software that fits your business and avoid stress when the rules become mandatory.

So whether you’re on the tools, on the road, or juggling invoices between jobs, sort your tax setup now and save yourself the hassle later.

Visit makingtaxdigital.campaign.gov.uk today to get started.