MTD Compatible Accounting Software Selection and Configuration
HMRC recognition means software can connect to HMRC, not that it suits your business. ABM Chartered Accountants provides independent selection and configuration of compatible accounting software, matching Xero, QuickBooks, Sage or FreeAgent to your needs and setting it up correctly.
The Right MTD Software, Set Up Properly
Selection and configuration of compatible accounting software begins with your situation: VAT status, self-employment and property income, transaction volume, foreign income and whether staff need access. We shortlist HMRC-recognised platforms that support every submission you will make, including quarterly updates and the final declaration, and explain where bridging software is sufficient and where full cloud accounting pays for itself.
Configuration then covers your chart of accounts, VAT schemes, opening balances, bank connections, user permissions and HMRC authorisation, all tested before your first live submission goes to HMRC.
Related Making Tax Digital Services
Software is the foundation of MTD compliance, and our related services build on it. From data migration to training, ABM makes sure your chosen platform delivers accurate records and submissions.
MTD Readiness Assessment
We confirm whether MTD applies to you, when it starts and what changes.
Digital Bookkeeping Setup
Chart of accounts, categories and opening balances built for MTD digital records.
Bank Feed Automation
Live bank feeds, rules and receipt capture that remove manual data entry.
Data Migration
Spreadsheet and legacy system data moved cleanly into MTD compatible software.
MTD Training
Practical software training for owners and staff so records stay accurate all year.
Quarterly Updates
Preparation and submission of all four quarterly updates before each HMRC deadline.
Why Professional Configuration Matters
Independent recommendation: We are partners with all major platforms, so advice is based on your needs rather than a vendor commission.
Every income type supported: Property, foreign, CIS and multi-currency income are checked against software capability before you commit.
Correct from the first entry: A properly built chart of accounts and VAT setup prevents miscoded transactions and rejected submissions.
Both MTD regimes in one system: Where possible we configure a single platform for VAT returns and Income Tax quarterly updates.
Tested before go-live: HMRC connection, bank feeds and a trial submission are verified before you rely on the system.
MTD Software Setup Across London and the UK
ABM Chartered Accountants configures MTD compatible software from our Canary Wharf office in London and remotely for clients in Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Glasgow, Bristol, Newcastle and across the UK.
Software Configured for Your Sector
We set up software for landlords tracking multiple properties, contractors and freelancers, construction firms handling CIS deductions, e-commerce sellers with marketplace feeds, hospitality operators and healthcare professionals with mixed income.
Why Choose ABM for MTD Software Selection
Certified Partners
Our team holds partner and advisor certifications with Xero, QuickBooks & Sage, so setup follows each platform's best practice.
Fit Before Features
We match software to your income types and volume rather than recommending the most expensive tier by default.
Configuration Documented
You receive a written setup record covering settings, integrations and logins, useful for staff and future audits.
How We Work
Initial Consultation
Set Up and Onboard
Ongoing Support
We provide regular reviews and proactive advice to keep your finances optimised and HMRC-compliant.
Get in Touch Today
Whether you need help with your tax return, payroll, VAT, or business advisory, our qualified UK accountants are ready to provide clear, practical guidance for your specific needs.
Book a Consultation
Fill in the form below and one of our expert accountants will contact you promptly to discuss your accounting and tax requirements.
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MTD Software Selection FAQs
Common questions about choosing and configuring HMRC-recognised software for Making Tax Digital for VAT and Income Tax.
Which software is compatible with Making Tax Digital?
HMRC publishes a recognised list on GOV.UK covering full cloud platforms such as Xero, QuickBooks, Sage and FreeAgent, plus bridging tools and free basic products. We confirm the right option for your needs.
Do I need separate software for each tax?
Not usually. Most full accounting platforms support both regimes, but each must be activated separately. We check your current VAT software also handles Income Tax quarterly updates before recommending changes.
Is bridging software enough for MTD compliance?
It can be for simple businesses that keep digitally linked spreadsheet records. It lacks bank feeds, receipt capture and reporting, so most clients move to cloud accounting within a year.
Does HMRC recognition mean the software is good?
No. Recognition confirms the product connects to HMRC systems correctly. It does not assess ease of use, reporting, support quality or whether it handles your specific income types.
What does configuration actually involve?
Chart of accounts tailored to your Self Assessment categories, VAT scheme settings, opening balances, bank feed connections, receipt capture, user permissions, HMRC authorisation and a test submission before go-live.
Can you migrate my data into new software?
Yes. We move transaction history, customer and supplier records, opening balances and VAT history from spreadsheets or legacy systems, reconciling everything so your new software starts accurate.