MTD for Income Tax - Don’t Leave Registration Until the Last Minute

The new Making Tax Digital (MTD) rules for Income Tax come into effect on 6 April, now only days away.  If you’re a sole trader or landlord with over £50,000 in qualifying income, you’ll be required to follow the new rules from 6 April 2026. Despite this, HMRC say around 90% of the 864,000 taxpayers affected still haven’t registered.

Starting April 2026, you’ll be required to keep your records digitally and use approved commercial software. HMRC won’t be offering a free solution, and the first quarterly update is due by 7 August 2026, so it’s important to get set up as soon as possible.

And remember MTD applies based on your 2024/25 income, even if your income drops later.

Your Quick‑Start MTD Checklist

✔️ 1. Check your income

If your total self‑employed or property income was over £50,000 in 2024/25, you must register.

✔️ 2. Register for MTD for Income Tax

Registration is open now - early registration means fewer surprises later.

✔️ 3. Choose compliant software

Quarterly updates can only be filed digitally through approved commercial software, and there is no free HMRC option.

✔️ 4. Set up digital record keeping

Start recording income and expenses digitally, from an MTD compatible software, from April 2026.

✔️ 5. Get ready for your first submission

Your first quarterly update is due by 7 August 2026 - it comes around fast.

Need Help Getting Registered?

We can help you register, choose the right software, and set up a smooth digital process for MTD.

Get in touch with your usual JS contact today to get ahead of the deadline.