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Getting ready for digital record keeping (MTD)
What "MTD-ready" record keeping means for subcontractors, and how to build a tidy digital base now — without waiting.
Published 6 June 2026 · 5 min read · General information, not advice
Record keeping is going digital. Making Tax Digital (MTD) is the UK government's programme to move tax record keeping and reporting online, and over time it affects more self-employed people. You don't need to wait for a deadline to benefit — keeping tidy digital records now makes the transition simple whenever it applies to you.
What "MTD-ready" actually means
In practice, MTD-ready record keeping means your income and expenses are recorded digitally and as you go, rather than reconstructed from paper once a year. The records should be organised, searchable and exportable — a clean base your accountant or software can work from.
It does not mean
- That a record-keeping app automatically files your tax for you.
- That you no longer need an accountant.
- That paper is banned — but digital is far easier to keep tidy.
How to build a tidy digital base today
- Capture digitally from the start — photograph receipts, forward email bills, log income as it comes in.
- Categorise consistently so totals are meaningful.
- Reconcile against your bank so the picture is complete.
- Keep it exportable so you (or your accountant) can produce what's needed.
SubReady is built with digital record keeping in mind: it keeps your records structured and MTD-ready so you have a clean digital foundation. To be clear, SubReady focuses on organised, accountant-ready records — it does not currently submit anything to HMRC, and any future submission capability would be a clearly communicated roadmap item.
Note: This guide is general information about record keeping, not tax, accounting, financial or legal advice. Rules and rates can change — always check the current position with HMRC or a qualified accountant for your own situation.
Frequently asked
Is SubReady MTD-ready?
SubReady keeps digital records in an organised, MTD-ready form. It does not currently submit to HMRC — direct submission is a future roadmap consideration, not a current feature.
Do I need to do anything about MTD now?
Requirements and timings vary by circumstance. Keeping tidy digital records now is a low-risk way to be prepared — check the current rules with HMRC or your accountant.