MTD Guides & Articles

What Is Making Tax Digital? A Proper Explanation

HMRC has changed how self-employed people and landlords report their tax. We explain what Making Tax Digital actually is, who it hits, and what to do about it.

8 min read

MTD for Self-Employed: What Sole Traders Need to Do

Freelancer, contractor, sole trader? This guide covers what Making Tax Digital means for you, what records HMRC expects, and a step-by-step checklist.

7 min read

MTD for Landlords: What Rental Income Means Under the New Rules

If you earn rental income from property, Making Tax Digital applies to you too. We cover how it works for landlords, including joint ownership and multiple properties.

7 min read

Every MTD Deadline for 2026/27 in One Place

The full Making Tax Digital calendar for the 2026/27 tax year. Quarterly submission dates, the final declaration, payment dates, and when penalties start.

5 min read

MTD Penalties: How the Points System Works and How to Avoid Fines

HMRC's new penalty system for Making Tax Digital uses points, not instant fines. We explain how many points trigger a penalty, what the fines are, and how to reset.

6 min read

25 April 2026

MTD Thresholds Are Dropping Fast: The £30K and £20K Deadlines Coming Next

Think MTD doesn't affect you because you earn under £50,000? The threshold drops to £30,000 in April 2027 and £20,000 in April 2028. Here's why you should prepare now.

4 min read

22 April 2026

Your Accountant Might Not Be Ready Either: 42% of Firms Are Behind

An IRIS survey found nearly half of UK accountants weren't fully prepared for MTD. Find out what that means for you and the questions you should be asking.

5 min read

20 April 2026

Can I Still Use Spreadsheets for Making Tax Digital?

Short answer: yes, but only with bridging software. Here's exactly what HMRC allows, what bridging tools are available, and whether a spreadsheet is still worth it.

5 min read

18 April 2026

Should You Sign Up for MTD Early? The Case for Going Voluntary

Even if you earn under £50,000, you can sign up for MTD now. Over 100,000 people already have. Here's why early adopters say it's worth it.

4 min read

15 April 2026

MTD Quarterly Updates: What You Actually Have to Submit

A quarterly update isn't a full tax return. Here's exactly what goes into each submission, how long it takes, and what happens after you hit send.

5 min read

14 April 2026

MTD for Jointly Owned Property: The Headache Nobody Warned You About

Own a rental property with your spouse or partner? Under MTD, you both have to file separately. We explain how joint ownership works and what to watch out for.

5 min read

12 April 2026

The Best Free and Cheap MTD Software in 2026

You don't need to spend a fortune on MTD software. We list the free and affordable options that HMRC recognises for Making Tax Digital.

6 min read

10 April 2026

No Fines for Late Quarterly Updates in Year One. But Don't Get Complacent

HMRC won't issue penalty points for late quarterly submissions in 2026/27. We break down what that covers, what it doesn't, and why you should still file on time.

4 min read

8 April 2026

94% of Businesses Weren't Ready for MTD. Are You Sorted Yet?

A survey by Azets found most businesses were unprepared for Making Tax Digital. Your first quarterly update is due in August. Use this checklist to catch up.

5 min read

6 April 2026

Am I Exempt from Making Tax Digital? The Full List for 2026

Not everyone has to comply with MTD. Here's every exemption category, who qualifies, and how to apply if you think you're eligible.

5 min read