HMRC opens its phones on Saturday for new digital tax deadline
HMRC will run its Self Assessment helpline on Saturday (7 November) ahead of the second Making Tax Digital deadline.
Sole traders and landlords earning more than £50,000 must send their second quarterly update for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax by Saturday (7 November), HMRC has warned.
An MTD quarterly update is not a tax return. It’s a short summary of self-employment and property income and expenses, which is sent through compatible software. There’s no tax calculation involved and no payment is due when you send it.
Customers’ overall tax position is only calculated when they submit their tax return for the 2026 to 2027 tax year.
If a customer successfully completed their first quarterly update in August, there’s no need to recheck their status or contact HMRC for reassurance. They can check their submission history at any time by logging into their HMRC online account or through MTD software, without needing to call or use webchat.
The tax authority noted that specialist accounting software is not necessary to complete the process. It added that there are a variety of HMRC-recognised software options to suit different needs and circumstances. Some customers use software designed specifically for sole traders and landlords, while others use more advanced accounting packages.
Some free software options are also available. Customers can also use spreadsheets linked to bridging software. There is guidance on GOV.UK to help people choose MTD compatible software that is right for them.
Customers can send their second quarterly update before or on 7 November. HMRC is encouraging people to send it as early as possible following the end of the update period.
Customers that need support should contact HMRC during the week when the full phone service is available. However, phone support will be available through the Self Assessment helpline on Saturday (7 November) from 09h00 to 15h00 for customers who need assistance with sending their quarterly update.
