Ep 329: Digital Tax Revolution: Don't get left behind!

Andy Pow hosts this week's podcast with Forvis Mazars healthcare accountants Dawn Laird and Lee Simmonett to explain Making Tax Digital (MTD) for income tax, described as the biggest change since the 1990s and arriving in 2026, with around three-quarters of affected taxpayers not registered. MTD currently applies mainly to self-employed clinicians such as GP locums (and some consultants with self-employed private practice) and to property income; it does not directly affect partnerships or limited companies. The trigger is cumulative income over £50,000 (before expenses), including combined self-employment and rental income, with thresholds falling to £30,000 then £20,000. Recipients must register separately (not auto-enrolled). Quarterly submissions start with the first due 7 August, plus a final declaration; tax payment dates remain January and July. Spreadsheets require bridging software; digital tools like Xero are recommended. Penalties begin next year: one point per missed quarterly submission, £200 at four points, lasting 24 months.00:00 MTD Shockwave 202601:23 Who Must Comply02:37 Income Thresholds Explained05:15 Registering With HMRC06:35 Quarterly Deadlines07:10 Software Vs Spreadsheets08:53 Final Declaration Basics11:40 Penalties And Compliance16:10 Rental Income Complications20:12 New Businesses And Voluntary21:45 Top Tips To Prepare23:57 Accountant Support Options26:51 Final Wrap UpWant the latest financial tips for doctors and exclusive invites? Join 71,000 doctors here https://www.medicsmoney.co.uk/join-medics-money/Want a free assessment of your finances? Click here https://medics-hnz5twj1.scoreapp.comWant to improve your finances fast? Then come on our coursehttps://www.medicsmoney.co.uk/medics-money-financial-wellbeing-course/Want to find out more about our other courses?www.medicsmoney.co.uk/coursesFollow us on InstagramFollow us on TwitterDisclaimer:The information provided in this content is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. You should not rely on this content as a substitute for professional advice tailored to your specific financial situation. The value of your investments can go down as well as up. Past performance is not indicative of future results.