17 days until Making Tax Digital. Most UK freelancers still aren't ready.

The Making Tax Digital for Income Tax deadline is 6 April 2026 . If you're a sole trader or landlord earning over £50,000, you're legally required to: Keep digital records Submit quarterly updates to HMRC via MTD-compatible software Replace your annual self-assessment with this new system Most people I've spoken to either don't know this applies to them or haven't taken any action. What actually changes Before MTD: File one annual return by 31 January. Done. After MTD (from April 2026): File quarterly updates (July, October, January, April) plus an annual finalisation. That's 5 submissions per year instead of 1. Each must come from approved software. The threshold is £50k... for now April 2026: £50,000+ April 2027: £30,000+ April 2028: TBD (likely lower) If you're just under the threshold, build the habit now. You'll be in it within a year or two. What you need to do before 6 April Check if you're affected — add up your self-employed income + rental income. Over £50k combined? You're i