It's hard to believe that we're already a month on from the first Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax quarterly submission deadline on 7th August! 🎉

Our first group of 10 clients has now completed the full MTD journey with us—from registration and identity checks to connecting bookkeeping software with HMRC and submitting those crucial first quarterly updates.

And we were far from alone: more than 430,000 people with sole trader or property income signed up with HMRC during the first quarter, showing just how quickly the move to digital record-keeping is gathering pace.

Were there a few teething problems? Naturally—but overall, the process went remarkably smoothly. There were times when HMRC did not yet have all the answers, but that is part of navigating a new system, and we are learning and adapting together.

What has impressed us most is how positively our clients have embraced the change.

For some, it has meant a completely new approach to bookkeeping. Instead of facing an annual spreadsheet marathon—trying to recall transactions from months ago and track down missing information—they are now using software to keep their records up to date as they go.

They are already seeing the benefits: more current figures, a clearer picture of how their business is performing and a much better idea of what their tax bill is likely to be.

We have learned a great deal too. We now understand where the potential bumps in the road may be and feel even better equipped to guide clients through each stage—offering clear explanations, practical support and a reassuring hand whenever it is needed.

With that experience behind us, we are now turning our attention to the next wave of MTD.

As we complete our clients’ 2025/26 personal tax returns, we are identifying and speaking with those who will need to join Making Tax Digital for Income Tax from 6th April 2027 helping to ensure a smooth and stress-free transition. This next phase applies to sole traders and landlords whose total qualifying income from self-employment and property was more than £30,000 in the 2025/26 tax year. Under the new rules, they will need to keep digital records and use compatible software to send quarterly updates to HMRC. If this applies to you, we will talk you through the software, the requirements and what is changing,

The biggest lesson from our first group? Preparation makes all the difference.

Starting early gives clients time to become comfortable with the software, build new bookkeeping habits and ask plenty of questions along the way.

It is far better to reach next April feeling prepared and confident than to face a last-minute scramble.