Self Assessment software starts with organised records

Do not leave the record build until January

Self Assessment is easier to prepare when business income, expenses and supporting documents have been kept current through the year.

Know what the figures are based on

A tax return should be supported by reliable records. LedgeX is designed to make the source information behind reported figures easier to organise and review.

Keep MTD changes in view

Some sole traders now fall within Making Tax Digital for Income Tax. The digital records used during the year therefore matter increasingly to the year-end tax process.

Use current HMRC rules for the final return

Allowances, deadlines and filing requirements can change. The final tax treatment depends on the taxpayer's circumstances and the rules for the relevant tax year.

Frequently asked questions

Who normally sends a Self Assessment tax return?

People may need to file for several reasons, including self-employment and other untaxed income. HMRC guidance should be checked for the taxpayer's circumstances.

Can software calculate everything automatically?

Software can assist with records and calculations, but the accuracy of a return still depends on complete information, correct tax treatment and the rules for the relevant year.

Does MTD for Income Tax replace Self Assessment?

MTD changes the digital record and submission process for people within scope, but HMRC still describes the end-of-year process as submitting the tax return through compatible software.

Official guidance

GOV.UK: Self Assessment tax returns · HMRC: MTD for Income Tax

Reviewed September 2026