MTD for Income Tax kicks off in April 2026 for those earning over £50k. Digital records, quarterly updates, and tougher penalties are on the way. If this affects you, it’s time to get ready.

Designed to modernise the tax system and improve accuracy, MTD will significantly change how Income Tax is reported and paid. With less than a year until the first group of taxpayers must comply, now is the time to prepare.

MTD for Income Tax will become mandatory for self-employed individuals and landlords with annual business or property income exceeding £50,000 from April 2026,. This will require taxpayers to submit quarterly updates to HMRC, maintain digital records, and comply with a new penalty regime for late submissions and payments.

The second phase of implementation will begin in April 2027, extending the requirements to those earning between £30,000 and £50,000. In a further expansion announced during the Spring Statement 2025, MTD obligations will apply to sole traders and landlords with income over £20,000 starting April 2028. The government has also indicated that it is considering the best approach for individuals earning below this threshold.

HMRC is currently contacting taxpayers whose 2023-24 self-assessment returns indicate income near or above the £50,000 threshold. These letters are intended to provide advance notice of upcoming obligations under MTD.