MTD and Companies House changes—made simple.

Two major changes are reshaping the way sole traders, landlords and company directors deal with HMRC and Companies House. Awake can help you understand what applies, get the right systems in place and complete the necessary steps without the jargon.

We are a registered Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP), also known as a Companies House authorised agent. That means we can verify identities for Companies House as well as support clients with Making Tax Digital.

WHO IS AFFECTED?

MTD for Income Tax applies to sole traders and landlords registered for Self Assessment whose gross qualifying income from self-employment and property is above the relevant threshold.

• Over £50,000 in 2024/25: MTD applied from 6 April 2026.

• Over £30,000 in 2025/26: MTD applies from 6 April 2027.

• Over £20,000 in 2026/27: MTD applies from 6 April 2028.

WHAT CHANGES?

You will need to keep digital records, use compatible software and send quarterly updates of income and expenses to HMRC. A final tax position still needs to be completed after the year end.

HOW AWAKE HELPS

• Check whether and when the rules apply.

• Select and configure suitable software.

• Clean up and digitise records.

• Register you or act as your agent.

• Prepare and submit quarterly updates.

• Complete the year-end tax position.

• Help with exemptions or unusual circumstances where appropriate.

MTD is not simply four extra tax returns. Done properly, it can give you a much clearer, more current view of profit, cash and tax.

Identity verification is now a legal requirement for people who set up, run, own or control UK companies.

WHO NEEDS TO VERIFY?

• Company directors

• People with significant control (PSCs)

• LLP members and equivalent roles

• Directors of overseas companies registered in the UK

WHAT HAPPENS?

After successful verification you receive a personal Companies House code. Existing directors use it with the company's next confirmation statement; new directors need it for appointment or incorporation. A company cannot file its confirmation statement unless all directors have completed the required verification.

WHY USE AN ACSP?

You can verify directly through GOV.UK One Login free of charge. Alternatively, an ACSP can verify your identity on your behalf. This can be especially useful where you want personal support, have several directors or PSCs, or the online route is not straightforward.

Awake is a registered ACSP and can:

• explain who needs to verify and when;

• check approved identity evidence;

• complete the verification process;

• help directors and PSCs connect personal codes to their roles; and

• coordinate verification across a company or group.

We will always tell clients when the free direct route may be suitable. Our paid service is for those who value support, certainty and a properly managed process.

Whether you need MTD set-up, quarterly reporting or Companies House identity verification, Awake will give you a clear checklist, sensible timetable and practical support.

Start early. The easiest deadlines are the ones you prepare for before they become urgent.