Home Questions
What is MTD bridging software?
Bridging software is HMRC's term for software that connects to records you already keep, such as a spreadsheet, and makes your Making Tax Digital submissions to HMRC. GOV.UK It's how spreadsheet users send quarterly updates and, with some products, submit their tax return. GOV.UK
How it differs from all-in-one software
HMRC describes two types: software that creates digital records (for example by linking to your bank, scanning receipts or manual entry), and software that connects to your existing records, which is sometimes called bridging software. GOV.UK
What to check before you choose
HMRC says your software needs to support all your income sources, send quarterly updates, submit your tax return and work with your accounting period. GOV.UK Some bridging products do all of this and some don't, so check before you choose. GOV.UK HMRC's software finder only lists software that has been through HMRC's recognition process. GOV.UK
Where a spreadsheet template fits
A template like the Plaincolumn Landlord Workbook is where your records live. It isn't bridging software, and it can't submit anything to HMRC. Exports your records as a CSV file, using HMRC's category names.
Try the free sample (1 property, first quarter, free).
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- Use Making Tax Digital for Income Tax: before you use this guide (GOV.UK, last updated 2 April 2026; checked 10 October 2026)
- Choose the right software for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (GOV.UK, last updated 13 July 2026; checked 10 October 2026)