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Making Tax Digital For Landlords

Making Tax Digital for Income Tax is one of the most significant changes to landlord taxation introduced by HMRC in recent years. At Beresfords, we are committed to helping our landlords with rental properties located across Essex and Greater London navigate these and any other changes effectively.

This guide explains what Making Tax Digital means and who it affects

What is Making Tax Digital?

Making Tax Digital is a UK Government initiative requiring certain landlords and/or sole traders to:

  • Keep digital records of income and expenses
  • Submit updates to HMRC every quarter
  • Complete a final annual declaration

This replaces the traditional annual Self Assessment system with a more structured, digital process.

Who is affected and when?

Making Tax Digital applies to unincorporated landlords based on qualifying income. ‘Qualifying income’ means total revenue (not profit) generated during relevant quarterly periods from any self-employment and income generated from property. Limited Company landlords are not affected.

Implementation timeline:

  • April 2026, income over £50,000
  • April 2027, income over £30,000
  • April 2028, income over £20,000

What Landlords need to do

  • Register with HMRC: Landlords must sign up if they meet the criteria.
  • Use an HMRC approved digital platform: Landlords or their appointed Accountants where relevant must upload all relevant information required into HMRC-approved software. There are various options available.
  • Submit Updates Quarterly: Four submissions are required each year covering specific periods:
    • 6 April to 5 July  -  Filing deadline 7 August
    • 6 April to 5 October  -  Filing deadline 7 November
    • 6 April to 5 January  -  Filing deadline 7 February
    • 6 April to 5 April  -  Filing deadline 7 May
  • Complete an Annual Declaration: A final submission confirms accuracy and includes allowances or additional income.
  • Understand Penalties: A points-based system applies from April 2027, with financial penalties for repeated missed deadlines and late payments.

How do Beresfords support landlords?

As an award-winning lettings specialist with a strong presence across Essex and Greater London, Beresfords offer clear benefits to landlords including all compliance -based matters.

  • Our personnel retain extensive industry experience so are suitably qualified and equipped to provide sound and reliable advice.
  • Internal systems and processes are configured to make the entire process of dealing with Making Tax Digital much easier for our clients.
  • Related documentation is clear and ‘fit for purpose’.

Why this change matters

Making Tax Digital reflects increasing regulation within the UK rental sector, alongside legislation such as the Renters Rights Act.

For landlords, this means:

  • Greater accountability
  • More frequent reporting
  • Increased need for accurate record keeping

Are you considering a fully managed service?

Many landlords are now choosing fully managed services to reduce the administrative burden and ensure compliance.

However, making the right choice of agent is crucial. Not all agents are sufficiently qualified and equipped to meet minimum standards especially in terms of compliance so any discerning landlords should undertake an element of due diligence on the agent they are considering working with.

Frequently Asked Questions

Making Tax Digital is a HMRC initiative requiring landlords to keep digital records and submit quarterly tax updates instead of one annual return.
It starts in April 2026 for anyone who is self-employed or a landlord earning over £50,000, with wider rollout in 2027 and 2028.
Only unincorporated landlords or those with self-employed income meeting relevant thresholds are required to comply. Limited Company landlords are excluded.
Qualifying income is total revenue from rental properties and any self-employment before expenses.
HMRC applies a points-based penalty system, with financial penalties triggered after repeated missed submissions.

So, why us?

First established in 1968 we are one of the largest privately owned Independent agents in the South East. With branches across Essex and Greater London, Beresfords combine local market knowledge and expertise with national recognition for excellence. As a multiple award-winning agent who has a proven track record spanning 5 decades we are very well placed to offer sound and reliable advice whilst at the same time  consistently delivering positive results for our clients. Don’t take our word for it – see what hundreds of our clients have had to say. https://www.trustpilot.com/review/www.beresfords.co.uk

We are here to guide you through Making Tax Digital and all things lettings based. To discuss how Making Tax Digital affects you, or to explore further the benefits of using our fully managed service, contact your local Beresfords lettings team today.

Google

We have been landlords for 16 years and moving our portfolio from another agent to Beresfords was simple and expertly coordinated by their experienced staff. They make the entire process simple for landlords. Our properties are never vacant for long, and the quality of tenants is excellent. I would highly recommend them without hesitation.

Jane Stanton-Cole

Google

As a long-term landlord of Beresfords for more than 10 years, my experience with this agent has been exceptional. Everyone is highly professional, helpful, approachable, and knowledgeable. Excellent advice is given when needed and all queries are always dealt with efficiently. Thank you everyone.

Deborah Johnson

We are here to help you

Please do not hesitate to get in touch with our team

Contact your local Lettings branch

Please do not hesitate to get in touch with our team

Contact your local Lettings branch