Making Tax Digital

What is Making Tax Digital for Income Tax?

Making Tax Digital for Income Tax is the move to digital records and regular updates for affected sole traders and landlords. GOV.UK currently phases it in by qualifying income from April 2026, 2027, and 2028.

Last reviewed: 23 June 2026

What changes

Affected taxpayers need compatible software, digital records, quarterly updates, and finalisation after the tax year. It changes the record-keeping rhythm, not the underlying need to calculate taxable profit correctly.

Why accountants are preparing clients early

Software setup, bank feeds, category mapping, rental records, and quarterly review routines are easier to fix before MTD starts than during the first filing cycle.

Source note: tax rates, thresholds, and public-body explanations can change. Check the official source before making decisions.

GOV.UK MTD for Income Tax