MTD in 2026–27: put quarterly updates and annual returns on separate lines
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The first MTD year can involve deadlines for two tax years at once. A clear calendar should identify the period behind every task, rather than labelling everything as the next tax deadline.
Rules checked: 28 October 2026, UK. This guide covers MTD for Income Tax.
Write the tax year beside the action
HMRC: first-year MTD timetable lists the quarterly deadlines for the 2026–27 MTD year: 7 August 2026, 7 November 2026, 7 February 2027 and 7 May 2027. As at this article's check date, 7 November is the next date in that sequence.
| Task for the 2026–27 MTD tax year | Deadline |
|---|---|
| First quarterly update | 7 August 2026 |
| Second quarterly update | 7 November 2026 |
| Third quarterly update | 7 February 2027 |
| Fourth quarterly update | 7 May 2027 |
| Annual MTD tax return | 31 January 2028 |
The annual return deadline falls after the next tax year has already begun. Put the tax year in each reminder so a January return task is not confused with the current year's quarterly reporting.
Keep the already elapsed date on the record so you can confirm completion. Do not silently remove a missed or unresolved task because it is in the past.
Add annual returns separately
The prior 2025–26 Self Assessment return follows its usual route and relevant deadline. The annual return for 2026–27 is a different task, due by 31 January 2028 using the applicable MTD software process.
HMRC: submitting the MTD tax return explains the annual submission and the distinction for the tax year before MTD starts. Check your own obligations, especially where another filing arrangement or adviser is involved.
Add preparation dates
Choose earlier internal dates for collecting records, answering queries and checking the software connection. Assign each task to you or your adviser under your actual agreement.
Do not label a submitted quarterly update as completion of annual return work. Keep payment obligations and any other reporting requirements visible on their own lines.
Confirm what happened
Record the submission confirmation, responsible person and unresolved issues beside each event. Review the calendar when income sources or advisers change.
Name reminders by action and tax year, such as "2026–27 second quarterly update". That makes them easier to distinguish from an earlier annual return due during the same period.
This is general information, not financial or tax advice. Rules change, so check GOV.UK or speak to a qualified adviser.
Related reading
- MTD quarterly updates are cumulative: what that means when checking totals
- Bank feed plus manual entries: how to avoid duplicate MTD records
- Prepare the annual return after quarterly updates
Sources
Facts last checked: 18 October 2026.