At North Devon Accounts, we know that any tax changes can sound daunting to small business owners. Making Tax Digital (MTD) is one of those phrases that makes people sigh and think “another rule to learn.” But there’s another way to look at it.
From April 2026, MTD for Income Tax will start to apply to many self-employed businesses and landlords. It’s a big change, but it’s also a chance to make your finances more organised, less stressful, and more insightful all year round.
Why this change could help your business.
MTD means keeping digital records and sending updates to HMRC every quarter instead of one big tax return at the end of the year. It might sound like more work, but most small business owners who have already adopted it find it actually helps them keep on top of things.
Here’s why it’s not all bad news:
- You’ll stay in control. Regular updates mean you always know how your business is doing. No more year end surprises.
- You’ll save time in the long run. Once your systems are set up, you will be able to process your quarterly bookkeeping on one platform. This means fewer spreadsheets, so fewer errors.
- You’ll make better business decisions. Seeing your income and expenses more often helps know where you are and helps you plan ahead.
- You’ll future proof your business. Going digital is the way everything’s heading from banking, invoicing and tax. Getting started now puts you ahead.
Your go-to guides and resources.
We’ve rounded up the best places to find clear, reliable information about MTD and how to prepare for it:
- Check if MTD applies to you – GOV.UK
The official government tool to see when you need to start using MTD and whether you qualify for exemptions. - Making Tax Digital for Income Tax: Step by Step – GOV.UK
A simple overview of what you need, including digital record keeping and quarterly updates. - Get ready for MTD – HMRC Campaign Site
Useful if you want a quick summary of the timeline and how to get started. - Making Tax Digital for Income Tax – BDO Insight
An expert view that breaks down what the changes mean in everyday business terms. - MTD Explained – Low Incomes Tax Reform Group
Great for understanding thresholds and how MTD will roll out in stages. - What is Making Tax Digital – British Business Bank
Puts MTD in the wider context of digital finance and small business growth. - MTD for the Self Employed and Landlords – The Independent
A quick media summary of what’s changing and what it means in practice. - MTD Information Hub – Moore UK
A collection of in-depth guides, FAQs and checklists for those who want to go further.
Our take at North Devon Accounts.
Firstly, there is no choice. Quarterly MTD returns will phase out Self Assessment Tax Returns. Once you have embraced it, we believe this is an opportunity to simplify, not complicate. Moving to digital bookkeeping helps our clients spend less time chasing receipts and more time focusing on what they do best: running their business.
If you start planning now, MTD doesn’t have to be stressful. Choose software that fits your way of working, talk to your accountant early, and get into the habit of checking your numbers more often. You’ll be surprised how much easier things feel by the time April 2026 comes around.
At NDA, we’re here to guide you through the process, help you choose the right tools, and keep things as simple as possible.
Want to know how MTD affects you?
Get in touch with us today. We can arrange a face-to-face meeting at either our Braunton or Barnstaple offices, or we can chat over the phone or even online.
We’ll help you take the next step with confidence.