Many taxpayers preparing for Making Tax Digital (MTD) want to know exactly what records HMRC expects them to keep.
Under MTD for Income Tax, digital record keeping becomes mandatory for many landlords and sole traders.
These rules start from April 2026.
What records must be kept for MTD?
Taxpayers within MTD must maintain digital records of their income and expenses.
Typical information includes:
- business or rental income received
- dates of transactions
- expense amounts
- expense categories such as travel, repairs, or office costs.
These records must be stored digitally using MTD compatible software or connected systems.
Can you still keep spreadsheets?
Spreadsheets may still be used if they link to software that can submit data to HMRC.
However, many businesses find accounting software much easier to manage.
Why accurate digital records matter:
Good record keeping will make quarterly reporting easier and help reduce errors in tax submissions.
It also allows business owners to see how their business or property income is performing throughout the year.
Watch our video to understand Making Tax Digital record keeping requirements.
How ready are you for MTD?
Request a free MTD readiness check
Free MTD readiness call
We offer landlords and self-employed a free 15-minute Making Tax Digital readiness call.
This call will confirm:
- whether Making Tax Digital applies to you
- what you need to do next
- when you need to be ready
There is no obligation, so book your free call.
Complete the form or call us directly on 01635 555 666.
Independent advice. Clear next steps. No impact on your letting arrangements.
