Short answer: Making Tax Digital for Income Tax is now a practical record-keeping issue, not just a future tax headline. GOV.UK says sole traders and landlords with qualifying income over £50,000 must use it from 6 April 2026, using compatible software for digital records, quarterly updates and the tax return process.

What an accountant can help you work out

  • Whether your qualifying income is likely to bring you into scope.
  • Which income streams need digital records, especially if you have both trade and property income.
  • Whether your current bookkeeping will support quarterly updates without a scramble.
  • Which software or bridging approach is realistic for how you actually work.

Questions to ask before choosing MTD support

  • Will you help me check my qualifying income from the right tax year
  • Will you set up digital categories and review the first quarter before submission
  • Can you support my existing software, or are you recommending a switch
  • What is included: setup, bookkeeping, quarterly updates, final declaration and tax planning

Where people get caught out

  • Thinking the threshold means profit rather than gross qualifying income.
  • Waiting until the first quarterly update is due before cleaning up records.
  • Choosing software before checking whether it handles property, trade, VAT or multiple income streams.
  • Assuming an annual Self Assessment process will feel the same under MTD.

What to send before an accountant quotes

Send a short summary of your business type, turnover band, deadlines, software, current record quality and the decision you are trying to make. This helps the accountant quote for the real work rather than a vague label.

Official guidance referenced

Use these links to check current rules, thresholds and deadlines.

Related detailed guides

Making Tax Digital For Sole TradersMaking Tax Digital For LandlordsBest Accounting Software For Sole Traders Uk

FAQs

Does MTD mean I no longer do a tax return

No. GOV.UK says MTD software is used for digital records, quarterly updates and submitting the tax return and tax due by 31 January.

Can an accountant sign me up

An accountant or agent may help with sign-up and software, but you should understand what they are authorised to do for you.

Should I act now if I am near the threshold

Yes, it is sensible to check your records and likely qualifying income before a deadline creates pressure.

Keep this current

Tax rules and thresholds can change. Check the linked official guidance and speak to an accountant before making important decisions.