One step at a time.

Your Making Tax Digital preparation checklist.

Source basis: GOV.UK guidance. Check recorded 27 October 2026. Checks and limitations

Use this as a working list, then follow the official instructions for your own situation. Ticks stay on this page only; refreshing clears them. Print the list to keep a copy.

01Confirm whether MTD applies to you
Use the relevant tax return and check exemptions. If HMRC has already signed you up, read the letter and check your account.
Check my start date · Official source
02Choose software for the whole year
Check your income types, spreadsheet support, annual return, device, and free-plan limits. Ask about VAT, per-submission fees and charges for extra businesses.
Compare software · Official source
03Agree who does what
If you use an accountant or bookkeeper, agree who records transactions, sends each update, checks it arrived and files the annual return. This is our suggested handover checklist.
Understand agent roles · Official source
04Complete sign-up and authorise your software
Follow the GOV.UK steps for your tax year and your provider’s connection instructions. Confirm your income sources and update periods before your first submission.
Official sign-up instructions · Official source
05Prepare the cumulative records
Check the dates and totals for the tax year so far. Keep the supporting documents, check imported transactions and use digital links if you use more than one record-keeping product.
Understand digital links · Official source
06Submit, check receipt and keep the next date
Send using your compatible software. Check recent activity in your HMRC account, then add the next obligation to your calendar. A tick here does not confirm a submission to HMRC.
Check an update arrived · Official source