Making Tax Digital (MTD) is no longer a future concept. For many self-employed individuals and landlords, it is now a present reality. As we move closer to the first quarterly submission deadline, the focus has shifted from awareness to action. At Watson Knipe, the approach has been simple: don’t wait for change to happen, get ahead of it.
When you need to start using Making Tax Digital for Income Tax depends on your qualifying income within a tax year. If your qualifying income is over:
- £50,000 for the 2024 to 2025 tax year, you will need to use it from 6 April 2026
- £30,000 for the 2025 to 2026 tax year, you will need to use it from 6 April 2027
- £20,000 for the 2026 to 2027 tax year, the government has set out plans to introduce legislation to lower the qualifying income threshold
Taking a proactive approach
Rather than relying on HMRC communications, which have been inconsistent at best, we have taken ownership of the process. We have identified clients likely to fall within the MTD threshold based on their 2024/25 turnover and have been registering them for the new requirements.
From there, every affected client has received clear, tailored communication explaining:
- What MTD is
- Why are they affected
- What changes for them
- What deadlines do they need to be aware of
This early engagement has allowed clients to plan rather than react under pressure.
Simplifying the quarterly process
A key concern for many has been the move from annual to quarterly reporting. For businesses already stretched managing day-to-day operations, this can feel like an added administrative burden.
Our role has been to reduce that burden.
For clients already using cloud software such as QuickBooks or Xero, the transition is relatively seamless. We can access their records directly and manage submissions on their behalf.
For those without digital systems, we have introduced structured spreadsheet templates. These allow clients to record income and expenses in a simple, organised format, aligned to MTD requirements.
The result is a consistent process:
- Clients record their figures monthly
- Data is submitted to us ahead of each deadline
- We review, adjust where needed, and file quarterly updates
This creates a steady rhythm, replacing the traditional year-end rush with a more manageable, ongoing cycle.
We still have some clients who prefer to send us their receipts for us to upload and manage; that’s fine as well. We are doing our best to put processes in place that will best suit each client.
Supporting different types of clients
Every client is at a different stage of their digital journey, and our approach reflects that.
- Digitally confident clients continue using their existing software with minimal disruption
- Spreadsheet users benefit from structured templates and guidance
- Paper-based clients are supported with transitional arrangements where appropriate
In some cases, particularly with long-standing, flexibility remains key. However, where possible, we are encouraging a gradual move towards more efficient digital processes.
Looking beyond compliance
While MTD is a compliance requirement, it also presents an opportunity.
Quarterly reporting provides better financial visibility, helping clients understand their performance throughout the year rather than after it ends. It also reduces the risk of last-minute surprises regarding tax liabilities.
Importantly, clients are not expected to manage this alone. Our role is to take responsibility for deadlines, submissions and technical compliance, allowing business owners and landlords to focus on what they do best.
Preparing for what comes next
This is only the beginning. As thresholds reduce in future years, more individuals will be brought into MTD.
By acting early, we are ensuring our clients are already in a strong position, with processes, systems and support in place before the wider rollout.
The first quarterly submission, covering April to June 2026, will be due by 7 August 2026.
For many, this will be the first real test of the new system. For our clients, it is simply the next step in a process we have already put in motion.
Final thoughts
Change of this scale can feel daunting, particularly for those used to more traditional ways of working. However, with the right structure and support, it becomes manageable and, ultimately, beneficial.
At Watson Knipe, the focus remains on making MTD work in a practical, efficient way for every client. If you would like any help for this year or would like to get ahead for next year's submission, please do contact us by calling 01623 490 120 or email