Big changes to tax filing are here
HMRC has introduced mandatory digital record-keeping and quarterly reporting. At Venton, we’ll help you understand what’s changed, when it affects you and how to stay compliant, without the stress.
What is Making Tax Digital?
A clearer picture of your finances, before year-end surprises hit
MTD is a UK Government initiative requiring businesses and landlords to keep digital records and submit tax updates to HMRC on a quarterly basis, rather than once a year.
It came into effect for VAT in April 2019 and from April 2026 for Income Tax. For many people, this represents the biggest change to how they manage tax in a generation.
The good news: with the right software and the right accountant, the transition is straightforward. Venton has been supporting businesses through MTD compliance since day one.
Why it matters
Rather than scrambling at year-end, you get a clearer, ongoing view of what you owe. MTD can help reduce errors and avoid unexpected tax bills.
MTD for Income Tax rollout timeline
| DATE | THRESHOLD | DESCRIPTION |
| As of April 2026 | Gross income over £50,000 | Sole traders and landlords with total income above £50,000 must comply. |
| April 2027 | Gross income over £30,000 | The threshold drops, bringing more individuals into scope. |
| April 2028 | Gross income over £20,000 | Expected further extension to lower income thresholds. |
Key submission deadline
Under MTD, quarterly updates are due by the 7th of the month following each quarter end, following a similar rhythm to VAT. You can choose to align quarters with the tax year or calendar months.
Missing a deadline can lead to penalties, so it’s important to stay on top of submissions. If you’d like a clearer understanding of how the system works, you can read more in our guide to Making Tax Digital penalties.
Does Making Tax Digital for IT Apply to You?
Use this diagram to find out whether MTD applies now, soon, or not yet and when you may need to take action.
Not sure where you stand? Let’s talk it through.
If you’re unsure how the rules apply to you or when you’ll need to start, we can help you make sense of it and plan your next steps with confidence.
How Venton Can Support You
Whether you’d prefer to stay hands-on or hand everything over, we have a package designed to fit. All three options are designed to keep you fully compliant with HMRC requirements.
OPTION 1
MTD REVIEW PACKAGE
You keep your digital records and submit quarterly updates. We:
- Review your figures
- Submit your Final Declaration to HMRC
Ideal if you’re comfortable managing your own records but want professional oversight.
OPTION 2
MTD SUPPORT PACKAGE
You prepare your bookkeeping. We:
- Review your records
- Submit your quarterly updates
- Submit your Final Declaration
A good middle ground for clients
who want support along the way.
OPTION 3
MTD FULL SERVICE PACKAGE
We take care of everything. Including:
- Bookkeeping
- Quarterly submissions
- Final Declaration
Designed for those who want the process fully managed.
Not sure which level of support you need?
Get in touch and we can talk through your options and help you choose the right package.
VAT compliance
MAKING TAX DIGITAL FOR VAT
If your turnover exceeds the current £90k VAT registration threshold, your business is already required to use MTD-compatible software for VAT returns. Since April 2022, this requirement has extended to all VAT-registered businesses, regardless of size.
If you’re below the threshold, you can still opt in voluntarily and many businesses choose to do so, as digital software can provide a clearer, more up-to-date view of how your business is performing.
At Venton, we work with a range of MTD-compliant platforms and can help you get set up, train your team, or manage the process for you.
Compliant software we work with:
Xero
Sage
Quickbooks
VAT compliance services
- VAT registration
- VAT return preparation & submission
- Submissions to HMRC
- VAT liability balance confirmation
- Direct Debit setup
- New Build VAT reclaims
- Making Tax Digital setup
Specialist scheme experience
- Cash Accounting Scheme
- Flat Rate Scheme
- Partial Exemption
Ready for MTD?
Whether Making Tax Digital for either VAT or Self Assessment affects you now or in the future, preparing early can make the transition much smoother. Get in touch and we’ll talk you through what applies to you and what to do next.