Beta Programme
As the UK edges closer to the full rollout of Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self Assessment (MTD ITSA), landlords are being invited to test the waters through HMRC’s Beta programme. With the April 2026 deadline looming for those earning over £50,000 in combined property and self-employment income, the Beta phase offers a crucial opportunity to prepare, adapt, and influence the final shape of the system.
What Is the Beta Programme?
The Beta programme is HMRC’s live testing environment for MTD ITSA. It allows landlords to:
- Submit quarterly income updates using MTD-compatible software.
- Receive support from HMRC’s dedicated MTD team.
- Avoid penalties while learning the ropes.
It’s a soft landing for those willing to go digital early—and a chance to shape the future of tax reporting.
What’s the Feedback So Far?
Early adopters have shared mixed but largely constructive feedback:
- Ease of Use: Landlord-specific software has made quarterly submissions straightforward. Users appreciate the automation and clarity.
- Limited Software Options: The choices for landlord specific software is limited to 1 that is currently HMRC approved
- Joint Ownership Issues Resolved: A previous technical hurdle for jointly owned properties has been fixed, allowing more landlords to participate.
The Road Ahead
The rollout will be phased:
- – April 2026: Mandatory for those earning over £50,000.
- – April 2027: Threshold drops to £30,000.
- – April 2028: Further reduced to £20,000.
Landlords will need to:
- – Keep digital records.
- – Submit quarterly updates and a final declaration.
- – Use approved software or bridging tools.
What Landlords Should Do Now
- Join the Beta: If eligible, sign up to test the system and get ahead.
- Choose Software: Explore platforms on the market.
- Stay Informed: Follow HMRC updates and landlord forums for real-world insights.
Final Thoughts
While challenges remain, the feedback so far suggests that with the right tools and support, going digital doesn’t have to be daunting.