Making Tax Digital guide
MTD software for sole traders
The best MTD software is the one you will actually keep updated. Sole traders should prioritise simple income capture, expense categories and accountant access.
Core features to check
Look for MTD compatibility, bank feeds, receipt capture, expense categories, quarterly update support and clear exports for your accountant.
Spreadsheet users
If you want to keep spreadsheets, check whether bridging software is enough. If your records are messy, a bookkeeping app may reduce errors.
Best next step
Choose based on the workflow you can repeat weekly, not just the cheapest monthly price.
Quick answers
Can I use free software for MTD?
Possibly, depending on your needs and the software available. Check compatibility and whether it covers your income type.
Should I ask my accountant first?
Yes, especially if they will submit updates or review your records.
Turn the answer into a system
The free checker gives the likely deadline. The paid packs give the checklist, record routine and next steps.
MTD Starter Pack£19
A simple readiness pack for sole traders and landlords who need to understand their MTD dates, records and quarterly routine.
- MTD readiness checklist
- Quarterly update calendar
- Expense categories cheat sheet
- Sole trader spreadsheet template outline
- Landlord spreadsheet template outline
- Questions to send to your accountant
MTD Setup Kit£49
The fuller setup kit for turning MTD anxiety into a weekly and quarterly digital record keeping system.
- Everything in the Starter Pack
- Digital record keeping workflow
- Receipt naming system
- Quarterly update checklist
- MTD software chooser
- Landlord and sole trader setup checklists