MTD for Sole Traders — Get Ready for April 2026
Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax is being introduced by HMRC in stages. If you’re a sole trader or self-employed, you may need to keep digital records and submit quarterly updates using HMRC-compatible software. We help you prepare calmly and properly — without jargon.
No obligation. Clear answers. Practical setup support.
Quick MTD check for sole traders (60 seconds)
Complete the form below to see a likely start date and next steps. This is a general guide — if you have mixed income, CIS, multiple businesses, or you’re unsure, book a free review and we’ll confirm properly.
What MTD means for sole traders (plain English)
Digital records
Income and expenses should be kept digitally rather than paper-only records.
Quarterly updates
You’ll send quarterly updates to HMRC through compatible software.
HMRC-approved software
MTD requires compatible software for submissions and digital links.
Year-end finalisation
You still finalise after the year ends — quarterly updates are not your final tax bill.
How we help sole traders get MTD-ready
Confirm if and when MTD applies
We confirm your likely start date and the simplest plan for your situation.
Set up a clean digital workflow
We move you from paper/spreadsheets to a tidy digital system you can actually maintain.
Quarterly compliance support
We keep you on track with deadlines and submissions (no last-minute panic).
Year-end wrap up
We finalise everything after the year ends and keep records tidy.
Want a clear plan for your MTD setup?
Book a free review and we’ll tell you exactly what to do next.
MTD for sole traders — FAQs
Do I need to pay tax four times a year under MTD?
No. Quarterly updates are submissions of information, not tax payments. Tax is finalised annually.
Can I keep using a spreadsheet?
MTD requires digital records and compatible software for submissions. Some workflows can involve spreadsheets, but submissions must meet HMRC’s digital requirements. We’ll advise the simplest compliant approach.
I’m a CIS subcontractor — does this affect me?
CIS subcontractors are still self-employed for tax purposes. If your qualifying income meets the threshold, MTD may apply. Book a free review and we’ll confirm your position and the best setup.
I’m not sure about my income level — what should I do?
Use the checker above as a guide, then book a free review and we’ll confirm properly.
Ready to take the stress out of MTD?
We’ll help you understand the requirements, set up a clean system, and keep you compliant — as a sole trader.