Check your start date (runs in your browser; nothing is sent anywhere)
Enter your figures to see your start date.
How the checker works
Making Tax Digital for Income Tax applies to sole traders and landlords based on their qualifying income: self-employment income plus property income, added together, before expenses. HMRC looks at a tax return from an earlier year to decide when you start.
| Qualifying income | Measured on your | Start using MTD from |
|---|---|---|
| Over £50,000 | 2024 to 2025 tax return | 6 April 2026 |
| Over £30,000 | 2025 to 2026 tax return | 6 April 2027 |
| Over £20,000 | 2026 to 2027 tax return | 6 April 2028 |
What the checker does not know
- Exemptions. Some people can be exempt, for example for digital exclusion. The checker does not cover them; see GOV.UK.
- Partnerships and joint property. Count only your own share; check GOV.UK for how your situation works.
- Other income. Only self-employment and property income count towards the threshold. Wages, pensions and dividends do not.
- Your actual HMRC position. HMRC writes to people it thinks are affected, and you can check or sign up through your HMRC online account.
If you are in, what next?
You need digital records and HMRC-recognised software to send quarterly updates. Our free MTD spreadsheet maker builds the records spreadsheet; you then need bridging or accounting software to send the figures. Read the guide to the 7 November 2026 update for the next deadline.
Dates and thresholds are from GOV.UK guidance checked in October 2026 and can change, so confirm on GOV.UK before you act. This is general information, not tax advice.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need Making Tax Digital?
Does income from my job count?
Is the threshold before or after expenses?
Is my data sent anywhere?
Can I use a spreadsheet for Making Tax Digital?
Need records HMRC software can use?
Make a free MTD spreadsheet in your browser. No sign-up, nothing uploaded.
Altto is not affiliated with HMRC or any software company named.