HMRC Readiness & MTD Authorisation

Preparing for Making Tax Digital (MTD)

From April 2026, the way childminders report income to HMRC is changing. "Making Tax Digital" (MTD) replaces the annual Self-Assessment with four quarterly updates. KinderStart is designed to handle this transition seamlessly, acting as your official "functional compatible software".

Is MTD Mandatory for Me?

Mandatory enrolment begins in April 2026 for those with a total business and property income over £50,000. If your income is between £30,000 and £50,000, you join in April 2027.

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MTD Timeline

Step 1: HMRC Registration

Before linking KinderStart, notify HMRC that you are moving to MTD for Income Tax.

1. Sign in to your Government Gateway account.
2. Register for "Making Tax Digital for Income Tax".
3. Once complete, HMRC provides you with an MTD Enrolment ID. Keep this safe!

Step 2: Connect KinderStart to HMRC

Once you have your credentials, create the "Digital Link" required by law.

1. Navigate to Finance > MTD Readiness.
2. Enter your National Insurance Number (NINO).
3. Enter your MTD Enrolment ID.
4. Tap "Connect to HMRC".

KinderStart becomes MTD-ready once you complete setup. The connection takes under a minute.

Step 3: Complete the Readiness Checklist

The MTD screen includes a roadmap to ensure you are fully compliant before the mandate hits:

• Business Bank Account: Ensure your business and personal spending are separated.
• Digital Record Keeping: Start uploading receipts for ALL business expenses now to build your digital trail.
• Quarterly Workflow: Review your upcoming "Obligations" to see exactly when your first update is due.

Review your record-keeping practices now. Any gap in your digital trail becomes a gap in your quarterly submission.

KinderStart stores your digital records securely and keeps them for the full 6-year HMRC retention period.