Making Tax Digital for Landlords: What You Need to Know for 2026
With "Making Tax Digital" (MTD) reforms on the horizon, landlords in the UK will need to digitise their tax records and begin quarterly submissions to HMRC rather than filing just once a year. Beginning in April 2026, landlords with rental income exceeding ÂŁ50,000 must comply, while those earning between ÂŁ30,000 and ÂŁ50,000 will follow from April 2027. To clarify requirements, the government has released an interactive tool that helps landlords understand when they need to begin complying.
For those preparing for MTD, choosing MTD-compatible software is essential. This software will maintain digital records, submit quarterly updates, and provide an annual declaration at the end of each tax year. While a shift from paper-based records may feel daunting, early adoption of digital systems can save landlords time, reduce human error, and allow them to access real-time financial information.
In addition to software selection, landlords should review how they currently record their income and expenses. Accurate digital record-keeping will streamline quarterly submissions, and starting sooner rather than later can make this transition smoother. For landlords managing multiple properties or joint ownerships, MTD also provides clarity: record all property income under a single account and submit each individual's share if owned jointly​.
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For more details and to access the government’s interactive MTD tool, visit HMRC's guidance on MTD.