Making Tax Digital (MTD) is coming – and if you’re a self-employed worker, CIS subcontractor, or sole trader, you’ll need to follow the new rules from April 2026.
To help you prepare, we’ve put together a simple MTD checklist so you know exactly what’s required before the deadline.
What is Making Tax Digital (MTD)?
Making Tax Digital is HMRC’s new system for reporting income tax online. Instead of filing one self assessment tax return per year, you’ll need to:
- Keep digital records of your income and expenses
- Submit quarterly updates to HMRC using approved software
- File an end-of-year final declaration
This applies to most self-employed workers earning above £50,000 from April 2026 (and above £30,000 from April 2027).
Why self-employed workers need to prepare early
If you wait until the last minute, you could face:
- Stress of rushing to register for MTD
- Higher chance of errors and penalties
- Extra costs from choosing the wrong software
- Missed tax-saving opportunities
Preparing now gives you time to set up digital records and understand the process before it becomes mandatory.
MTD checklist: What you need before April 2026
Here’s a practical checklist to help you get MTD-ready:
| Step | What to do | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Check if MTD applies to you | From April 2026, if you’re self-employed and earn £50,000+ |
| 2 | Register with HMRC for MTD | Needed before you can submit quarterly returns |
| 3 | Get HMRC-approved software | Allows you to send updates and keep records digitally |
| 4 | Start keeping digital records | Income, expenses, CIS statements – all must be logged online |
| 5 | Plan for quarterly updates | Returns will be due every 3 months instead of once a year |
| 6 | Seek professional support | Accountants like Tax2u can handle the process for you |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not registering early – HMRC won’t let you file unless you’re enrolled in MTD
- Using non-compliant software – spreadsheets alone won’t cut it
- Forgetting about quarterly deadlines – penalties apply for late submissions
- Not claiming allowable expenses – you could end up paying too much tax
How Tax2u can help you get MTD-ready
At Tax2u, we make digital tax simple. Whether you’re a CIS subcontractor, sole trader or running your own small business, we’ll:
- Register you for MTD with HMRC
- Help you choose and set up the right digital software
- Keep your records compliant and accurate
- Submit your quarterly updates and final return on time
With our support, you can avoid penalties and stay focused on your work – while we deal with HMRC.
Get ahead of the April 2026 deadline
Don’t wait until the last minute. Start preparing for Making Tax Digital today and make the transition stress-free.
Contact Tax2u today and let us help you get fully MTD-ready before April 2026.