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Making Tax Digital checker

Check when Making Tax Digital for Income Tax applies to you, from your self-employment and property income before expenses. Uses the GOV.UK thresholds; runs in your browser and nothing is stored.

How it works

Qualifying income is your total self-employment and property income before expenses, based on your Self Assessment return for that year. Employment income, partnership income, dividends and pensions don't count (GOV.UK). The checker applies the thresholds in order: over £50,000 in 2024 to 2025 means 6 April 2026; over £30,000 in 2025 to 2026 means 6 April 2027; over £20,000 in 2026 to 2027 means 6 April 2028 (GOV.UK). Partnerships don't need to use it yet, and some people can apply for an exemption, for example if they're digitally excluded (GOV.UK).

Once you're in, you keep digital records and send quarterly updates by 7 August, 7 November, 7 February and 7 May. Read the full Making Tax Digital guide, then compare software: Xero, Sage, Zoho Books (free plan), FreeAgent and QuickBooks, or see bookkeeping apps for builders and plumbers. Check any app against HMRC's software finder.

A guide based on GOV.UK, checked 15 October 2026, not tax advice. HMRC writes to people it thinks need to sign up, but it's your responsibility to check.

Questions

Is Making Tax Digital based on turnover or profit?

Turnover. Qualifying income is self-employment and property income before expenses.

Do I add my rental income to my self-employment income?

Yes. Qualifying income is the total of both, before expenses.

Does my salary from a job count?

No. Employment income, partnership income, dividends and pensions don't count towards qualifying income.

What if my income drops below the threshold?

GOV.UK says you can stop using it if your qualifying income is below the threshold for 3 tax years in a row.