Guides for sole traders
Making Tax Digital explained, with practical tips for running your business.
HMRC-Recognised MTD Software Explained: What It Means and Why It Matters
Plain-English explanation of what HMRC-recognised MTD software means, why it matters for sole traders, and how to check whether a tool is on the official list before you commit.
Read moreFree MTD Software for UK Sole Traders: What Is Actually Free in 2026?
A plain-English guide to genuinely free MTD software for UK sole traders. Covers what each free plan actually includes, what it leaves out, and how to choose the right option for your needs.
Read moreCan I Use Spreadsheets for MTD Income Tax? The Honest Answer for UK Sole Traders
Can UK sole traders use Excel or Google Sheets for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax? The plain-English answer, what the rules actually say, and your real options.
Read moreBest MTD Software for UK Freelancers in 2026: A Plain-English Comparison
Compare the best Making Tax Digital software options for UK freelancers in 2026. Covers pricing, ease of use, HMRC-recognised tools, and which fits typical freelance workflows best.
Read moreBest MTD Software for UK Tradespeople in 2026: A Practical Guide
The best Making Tax Digital software for UK tradespeople in 2026. Covers sole-trader MTD tools for builders, electricians, plumbers, decorators, and other trades, with pricing and real-world fit.
Read moreFreelance Accounting UK: A Plain-English Guide for Sole Traders
Not sure how to handle your freelance accounting? This guide covers expenses, MTD, record-keeping, and software for UK sole traders. No jargon, no stress.
Read moreMTD ITSA Deadlines for Sole Traders: Your 2026-2027 Calendar (Without the Panic)
A plain-English deadline calendar for UK sole traders: when Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD ITSA) starts, quarterly update deadlines, and what to do next.
Read moreBest MTD Software for Sole Traders Who Don’t Want Full Accounting Software
Looking for the best MTD software without complicated accounting features? Here’s a plain-English guide for UK sole traders who just want simple, compliant Making Tax Digital tools.
Read moreMileage Claims for Sole Traders: HMRC Rates Explained
A plain-English guide to HMRC mileage rates for sole traders. Learn the 45p and 25p rules, who can claim, what records you need, and how to stay compliant with Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax.
Read moreMaking Tax Digital for Income Tax: What Sole Traders Need to Do Before the Deadline
A plain-English guide to MTD ITSA — what it means for UK sole traders, when it applies, and what you need to do.
Read moreHow to Record Income and Expenses for HMRC (Without an Accountant)
A plain-English guide for UK sole traders on how to record income and expenses correctly for HMRC — including what to track, how to stay compliant with Making Tax Digital (MTD), and how to keep it simple without hiring an accountant.
Read moreYour First MTD Quarterly Update: A 20-Minute Walkthrough for Sole Traders
A step-by-step plain-English walkthrough for UK sole traders submitting their first MTD ITSA quarterly update, including what to prepare and common mistakes to avoid.
Read moreFreeAgent vs Xero vs QuickBooks vs GoSimpleTax vs Cuppa: Which Is Best for UK Sole Traders?
A plain-English comparison of popular UK MTD software options for sole traders, focused on simplicity, learning curve, and MTD ITSA readiness.
Read moreSpreadsheet to MTD Software: A Stress-Free Switch Guide for Sole Traders
A practical guide for UK sole traders moving from spreadsheets to MTD-compatible software before MTD ITSA deadlines, with step-by-step migration advice.
Read moreSole Trader Expenses You Can Actually Claim: HMRC Rules in Plain English
A plain-English guide to allowable expenses for UK sole traders, including what you can claim, what you cannot, and how to keep records for Making Tax Digital (MTD ITSA).
Read more