Making Tax Digital · Income Tax · Accountants in Chelmsford
MTD for Income Tax, handled for you
From 6 April 2026, sole traders and landlords with qualifying income over £50,000 must keep digital records and send HMRC quarterly updates. Tax-Pert Accountants in Chelmsford gets you set up, signed up and fully compliant – without the stress.
Who must join, and when
Qualifying income = turnover from self-employment and property, before expenses.
570,000+
sole traders and landlords signed up by 7 August 2026 (HMRC)
4
quarterly updates every tax year
31 Jan
deadline for your final declaration
£0
penalties for missed quarterly deadlines in 2026-27
The basics
What is Making Tax Digital for Income Tax?
MTD for Income Tax is HMRC’s new way of doing Self Assessment. Instead of one tax return a year, you keep digital records and send short updates through the year.
1. Keep digital records
Record your income and expenses in MTD-compatible software. Spreadsheets can still be used with bridging software.
2. Send quarterly updates
Every three months, send HMRC a summary of your income and expenses. Only category totals are sent, not each transaction.
3. Make your final declaration
After the tax year ends, confirm your figures and send your final declaration by 31 January. It replaces your Self Assessment tax return.
Who it affects
Will MTD apply to you?
It depends on your qualifying income: the total turnover from self-employment and property shown on your tax return, before expenses. HMRC checks a past tax year to decide when you join.
Live Now
Phase 1
6 April 2026
Now
Phase 2
6 April 2027
Coming
Phase 3