Spreadsheets and bridging software for MTD

Spreadsheets are allowed

GOV.UK says if you use spreadsheets you can continue to use them, but you need software that links to them (bridging software) to send quarterly updates and submit your tax return (GOV.UK). Some bridging products can do both, so check before you choose.

Digital links: the rule to follow

Once a record is created and sent in an update, you must not move it by hand. That means no retyping figures into another cell or product, and no copy and paste. Allowed digital links include linked cells and formulas, importing or exporting files (CSV, XML), emailing a spreadsheet so it can be imported, or passing data on a memory stick for someone to import (GOV.UK).

If you correct a record, correct it in your spreadsheet and let the link carry it to the bridging software.

Using more than one product

You can use more than one product, for example one for records and quarterly updates and another for your tax return, or a different product for each business. But you can only use one product for each separate submission: a landlord cannot use two products for their property updates (GOV.UK).

How long to keep records

Keep your digital records for at least 5 years after the 31 January submission deadline for the tax year, the same as Self Assessment. This still applies if you change software.

Questions