by Asim Abbas
12 November 2026 
Choosing MTD software: what sole traders and landlords should look for
Choosing MTD software: what sole traders and landlords should look for
If you’re joining Making Tax Digital for Income Tax, you need HMRC-recognised software or bridging software for spreadsheets.
- Must be on HMRC’s recognised software list
- Look for bank feeds and receipt capture
- Landlords need property income support
- Bridging software works with spreadsheets
There are many products, from free basic tools to full accounting packages. The right one depends on how many transactions you have and how you like to work.
This guide covers the features that matter.
Types of MTD software
| Type | Best for |
|---|---|
| Full accounting software | Busy sole traders with many transactions |
| Simple record-keeping apps | Small businesses and side hustles |
| Landlord-specific tools | Property portfolios and agent statements |
| Bridging software | People who prefer spreadsheets |
Features to look for
- Recognised by HMRC for Income Tax
- Bank feeds that import transactions automatically
- Receipt capture by photo
- Support for all your income types, such as self-employment and property
- Final declaration and tax return submission
- Agent access for your accountant
Self Assessment tax calculator
Your annual bill.
Mo is a plumber with about 60 transactions a month, all through one bank account. A package with a bank feed and categorisation rules takes him 15 minutes a week. His neighbour, a landlord with two flats managed by an agent, uses landlord software that imports agent statements and needs only a few minutes each quarter.
Fixed-fee accountancy support
Transparent monthly packages for sole traders, landlords and limited companies. Fixed fees agreed upfront, VAT included.
Get a fixed-fee quoteCall 0161 531 4179Free software
HMRC lists some free products, usually for simple cases. Check limits on transactions or income types before relying on them.
Using spreadsheets
Bridging software connects your spreadsheet to HMRC. Keep a separate tab for each business, and categorise expenses using HMRC’s categories.
Using an accountant
Many accountants include MTD software and submissions in their fees, so you only need to upload receipts or connect your bank. Our MTD packages start at £25 a month, including VAT.
See HMRC’s list of MTD-compatible software and our quarterly updates guide.
What should I do next?
Trade and property.
Recognised software.
Save time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need special software for MTD?
Yes, HMRC-recognised software or bridging software.
Is there free MTD software?
Some free products exist for simple cases.
Can I keep using spreadsheets?
Yes, with bridging software.
Does my accountant provide software?
Many do as part of their fee.
Can landlords use the same software?
Some products support property income, others are landlord-specific.
Need help with this? Wingate Accountants offers fixed-fee online accountancy support across the UK. Call 0161 531 4179 or request a quote at wingateaccountants.co.uk.
About the Author
Ali Imran
I’m Ali Imran, an accountant at Wingate Accountants. I help sole traders, landlords and directors get their returns filed early and accurately, without the last-minute panic.
