Do I need an accountant for MTD ITSA, or can I do it myself?

It's a question we hear a lot: "Do I actually need to pay someone to help me with MTD, or can I just do it myself?" The honest answer is: it depends. Here's a straightforward breakdown of your options.

Option 1: Do it yourself

MTD ITSA doesn't legally require you to use an accountant or bookkeeper. If you're comfortable with numbers, have straightforward finances, and are happy to learn a new bit of software, you can absolutely manage it yourself.

What you'll need:

• MTD-compatible software (HMRC has a list on their website)
• Time to categorise your transactions each quarter
• Confidence that you're claiming the right expenses
• Discipline to hit four submission deadlines a year instead of one

For very simple finances — a single income source, minimal expenses — this is a perfectly reasonable approach.

Option 2: Use a traditional accountant

A qualified accountant can handle everything for you and provide regulated tax advice. This is the right choice if your finances are complex — multiple income streams, property income, employment alongside self-employment, or anything that requires genuine tax planning.

The downside is cost. Traditional accountants typically charge £500–£2,000+ per year for sole trader accounts, and many are still getting to grips with MTD themselves.

Option 3: Use a bookkeeping service like TaxChill

This is where TaxChill sits. We're not accountants — we're a bookkeeping and MTD compliance service. We handle the day-to-day: categorising your transactions, preparing your quarterly updates, and submitting them to HMRC on your behalf.

For most sole traders with straightforward finances, this is all you need. It's more affordable than a traditional accountant (from £50/month), and you get hands-on support rather than an annual meeting and a bill.

If your finances are complex and you need regulated tax advice, we'll always tell you honestly and point you towards a qualified accountant.

So which option is right for you?

Here's a simple way to think about it:

• DIY — works if you have simple finances, enjoy admin, and have time to learn the software
• TaxChill — works if you want it handled for you at a straightforward monthly cost, without paying accountant rates
• Accountant — works if you have complex finances or need regulated tax advice

Not sure which camp you fall into? Book a free call with us — we'll give you an honest answer, even if that answer is "you probably don't need us."