With only 50 working days until Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax begins, many landlords are understandably asking what they need to do, and how urgently. MTD represents the biggest change to the tax system since Self Assessment was introduced, and the clock is now firmly ticking for taxpayers who will be required to comply from 6th April 2026.
Published 23rd January 2026
Making Tax Digital: just 50 working days to go: What landlords need to know — and do — before April 2026
What landlords need to know – and do – before April 2026
With only 50 working days until Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax begins, many landlords are understandably asking what they need to do, and how urgently. MTD represents the biggest change to the tax system since Self Assessment was introduced, and the clock is now firmly ticking for taxpayers who will be required to comply from 6th April 2026.
With only 50 working days until Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax begins, many landlords are understandably asking what they need to do, and how urgently. MTD represents the biggest change to the tax system since Self Assessment was introduced, and the clock is now firmly ticking for taxpayers who will be required to comply from 6th April 2026.
What is Making Tax Digital?
From April 2026, taxpayers with qualifying income over £50,000 will need to keep digital records and submit quarterly updates to HMRC using compatible software, followed by a final annual declaration. This is a change in how information is reported, not how much tax is paid, but it does require new systems, new habits, and time to get comfortable with them. Importantly, taxpayers are expected to assess their own position by reviewing their qualifying income, rather than waiting for HMRC to contact them.
While some small or secondary income streams may fall outside MTD in limited circumstances, most landlords above the threshold will still need to comply fully.
What this means for landlords
For many landlords, MTD will significantly increase the administrative burden of staying compliant.
Instead of one annual submission, you will now need to ensure:
- Records are kept digitally throughout the year
- Figures are collated accurately every quarter
- Submissions are made on time and in the correct format
- Property businesses (UK and overseas) and Self Employment activities, where applicable, are reported separately
While it is technically possible to manage this yourself, many landlords will find that doing so will add unnecessary time, stress, and complexity to what is already a busy schedule.
How we can support you
Rather than managing quarterly submissions yourself, you can outsource the MTD process to us. We can:
- Review your digital records to ensure they meet HMRC requirements to ensure they are fully compliant with HMRC requirements
- Prepare and submit quarterly MTD updates to HMRC on your behalf
- Continue to prepare and submit your annual tax return as usual
This approach allows you to avoid learning new software, reduce ongoing admin and focus on running your property portfolio, not filing reports.
What you should do now
With just 50 working days remaining, now is the time to prepare:
- Establish whether Making Tax Digital applies to you
Review your gross income from property (and Self-Employment, if applicable) to confirm whether you will be required to join MTD from April 2026. - Review your current record-keeping
If you currently rely on paper records or informal spreadsheets, these will need to transition into a fully digital process. - Decide who will handle quarterly reporting
Quarterly updates are not a one-off exercise. Deciding now to delegate this to your accountant will make the transition far smoother.
Speak to us early
Every landlord’s circumstances are different, particularly where there are multiple properties, mixed income sources and joint ownership. Early planning gives us time to set everything up properly and avoid last-minute disruption.
Final thoughts
MTD is coming whether we like it or not, but with the right preparation, it does not need to be disruptive.
By acting now and allowing us to manage your quarterly MTD updates, you can approach April 2026 with confidence, knowing your compliance is in safe hands.
Contact us today to discuss how we can take care of Making Tax Digital for you.
Need help with tax matters? Contact us now
From April 2026, taxpayers with qualifying income over £50,000 will need to keep digital records and submit quarterly updates to HMRC using compatible software, followed by a final annual declaration. This is a change in how information is reported, not how much tax is paid, but it does require new systems, new habits, and time to get comfortable with them. Importantly, taxpayers are expected to assess their own position by reviewing their qualifying income, rather than waiting for HMRC to contact them.
The information contained in this article is believed to be correct at the time of publication. The content of this article is intended to be a brief summary of the principal points of the legislation or proposed legislation only, and it is provided for general guidance only. It may not take into account subsequent changes in the law and of necessity it omits much detail. Taxation is a complicated subject and is subject to change. You should only rely on advice prepared specifically for you. Neither the writer nor Landlords Tax Services Ltd can be held liable for any loss arising from any act or omission by you as a result of your understanding of this article. If the subject matter is of interest you should contact us to see if there is a relevant update, and to take professional advice which takes into account your circumstances.