What support is available for sole traders struggling with Making Tax Digital?

Understanding the pressure sole traders face with Making Tax Digital

Making Tax Digital (MTD) can feel like a big shift for sole traders, especially if you’ve previously managed your records on paper, in spreadsheets, or with a once-a-year “box of receipts” approach. Even if you’re organised, the move toward digital record keeping and more frequent reporting can introduce new costs, new habits, and new anxiety—particularly for people juggling client work, family responsibilities, seasonal cashflow, or health challenges.

It’s also important to recognise that “struggling” can mean different things. For some, it’s not knowing what software to use. For others, it’s the fear of doing something wrong, worries about penalties, or feeling overwhelmed by technical terminology. Many sole traders struggle because of time: learning a new system competes with billable work. And some people struggle for reasons that have nothing to do with motivation—limited digital skills, poor broadband, disability, language barriers, or the stress of running a business alone.

The good news is that support exists in several forms: practical help from HMRC and other public services, professional help from accountants and bookkeepers, training and peer support, financial and wellbeing support when business pressures hit hard, and technology options designed to reduce the workload. This article breaks down the main kinds of support available and how to access them, with a focus on real-world help that can make MTD manageable for sole traders.

What “support” looks like in practice

When people talk about support for MTD, they often mean “help with software.” That’s definitely part of it, but it’s not the whole picture. For a sole trader, meaningful support usually falls into five broad categories:

First, informational support: clear guidance on what’s required, when, and how. Second, skills support: learning how to keep digital records, reconcile transactions, and submit updates without panic. Third, compliance support: reassurance that your approach meets the rules and that you’re keeping the right evidence. Fourth, workload support: systems, templates, or services that reduce the time you spend on admin. And fifth, personal and financial support: help when stress, cashflow, or life circumstances make compliance difficult.

It can help to think of MTD as a process rather than a single task. Support is most effective when it tackles the process end-to-end—choosing a workable record-keeping method, setting up your system, maintaining it weekly or monthly, and then dealing with submissions and year-end tidy-up.

HMRC support: guidance, tools, and help channels

HMRC is one of the first places many people look for help, and it can be useful for understanding the basics: who needs to do what, deadlines, and what counts as a “digital record.” HMRC’s guidance can also help you confirm whether you’re within scope, what “compatible software” means, and how to authorise software to connect to your tax account.

Practical support from HMRC is typically delivered through a combination of online guidance, help pages, webinars, and helplines. If you prefer speaking to someone, HMRC phone lines can sometimes clarify what’s needed and where to find the relevant steps. If you find HMRC’s wording confusing, try approaching it with a specific question rather than a general “how do I do MTD?” For example: “What do I need to keep as digital records for my business?” or “How do I authorise my software to submit updates?” Specific questions are more likely to lead to useful, actionable answers.

Another form of support is the concept of “authorised agents.” HMRC recognises that many sole traders use accountants or tax agents, and the system is designed to let you formally authorise someone to manage aspects of your tax affairs. If you are overwhelmed, agent support can be one of the most effective ways to reduce stress quickly.

There is also an accessibility angle. If you have difficulties using online services—because of disability, limited digital access, or other barriers—you may be able to get additional help or alternative arrangements. Even if you are generally capable online, it’s worth knowing that support routes exist for those facing genuine access issues, and you shouldn’t feel embarrassed to explore them if you’re struggling.

Digital exclusion and accessibility: getting help if online systems are hard

Some sole traders struggle with MTD because of digital exclusion. That might mean poor internet, limited access to a reliable device, low confidence using software, or a disability that makes standard interfaces difficult. If this is you, you’re not alone—and the first step is acknowledging that your challenge is legitimate.

Support for digital exclusion often starts with practical adaptations. You might benefit from using mobile apps rather than desktop software, because they can be simpler and allow you to photograph receipts on the go. Alternatively, you might benefit from a bookkeeper who can take on the digital side while you provide source information. In other cases, training and assisted digital support can make the difference—someone sitting with you (in person or via screen share) and walking through the basics until it becomes familiar.

If your barriers are linked to disability, consider software that supports accessibility features such as screen readers, keyboard navigation, adjustable font sizes, and high-contrast display modes. If English isn’t your first language, look for providers that offer multilingual support or at least clear, plain-English guidance and video walkthroughs.

For sole traders with poor broadband, a key practical strategy is choosing software that works well on mobile data and can save work offline or with minimal connectivity. Another is setting aside a regular “admin hour” in a location with stable internet, such as a library or shared workspace.

Accountants and tax agents: how professional support can reduce your workload

Hiring an accountant isn’t only about saving tax. For many sole traders, the biggest benefit is peace of mind and time saved. A good accountant can help you set up your MTD process, advise on suitable software, and ensure your record keeping aligns with what’s required. If you’ve been avoiding admin, an accountant can help you rebuild order from chaos without judgement.

Many sole traders worry that accountants are expensive, but support can be flexible. Some accountants offer a “setup package” where they help you choose and configure software, create a chart of categories that match your business, and show you a routine to follow. Others offer quarterly reviews, where you maintain your records but they check them before submissions. There are also fully-managed bookkeeping and tax services where the firm does most of the heavy lifting.

When choosing an accountant or agent for MTD support, ask questions that focus on how they work, not just what they charge. Do they offer training? Will they review your bookkeeping? Will they help you fix past gaps? Do they support your chosen software? Will they communicate in plain language? A supportive professional should reduce your stress, not increase it.

If your business is very small or cashflow is tight, consider starting with a bookkeeper rather than a full accountant. A bookkeeper can keep your records tidy, reconcile your bank transactions, and make the numbers usable. Many sole traders find that once the bookkeeping is under control, the “tax” side becomes much less frightening.

Bookkeepers and virtual finance assistants: a practical middle ground

Bookkeepers are often the unsung heroes of compliance. Where accountants may focus on tax planning and year-end compliance, bookkeepers focus on the rhythm of everyday records. This aligns well with MTD, which is about maintaining digital records consistently rather than scrambling at year-end.

A bookkeeper can help in several ways. They can set up your software properly, so that bank feeds connect and transactions are categorised. They can create rules that automatically classify common payments, reducing your manual workload. They can also implement a simple receipt capture process and ensure that income and expenses are recorded promptly.

Virtual finance assistants are another option, especially for sole traders who also struggle with broader admin. They can help manage invoicing, chase late payments, organise documents, and keep your records current—activities that indirectly make MTD compliance much easier.

Even a small amount of help can have a big impact. For example, paying a bookkeeper for two hours a month to reconcile accounts and highlight issues can prevent the build-up of errors and stress that lead to crisis-mode later.

Software provider support: onboarding, training, and customer service

MTD-compliant software providers usually offer some form of support, and this can be more valuable than people expect. Many platforms have onboarding checklists, guided setup, tutorial videos, and knowledge bases. Some offer live chat, phone support, or community forums. These resources are designed to reduce your learning curve and help you avoid mistakes.

When you’re struggling, it’s easy to blame yourself. But sometimes the issue is that the software isn’t a good fit. If you find yourself repeatedly confused, the interface may not match your way of thinking. Support can include switching to a simpler plan, changing settings, using a different workflow, or even moving to a different provider if your current one creates friction.

Look out for features that reduce admin: bank feeds, receipt capture, automatic categorisation rules, and simple invoicing. The more your system can automate routine tasks, the less likely you are to fall behind. If you’re not sure what features to prioritise, describe your reality: how you get paid, whether you travel, how often you buy materials, and how comfortable you are with technology. The “right” software is the one that supports your habits rather than forcing you into a rigid process you can’t sustain.

If you’re working with an accountant, ask them which software they prefer and why. In some cases, the best support is choosing a platform your accountant can easily access, because it allows them to spot issues early and guide you efficiently.

Free and low-cost training: building confidence with digital record keeping

A common reason sole traders struggle with MTD is fear—fear of making a mistake and being penalised, fear of technology, or fear of not understanding the numbers. Training reduces fear by turning unknowns into routines. You don’t need to become an expert; you just need enough confidence to follow a simple process consistently.

Look for training that matches your learning style. Some people learn best from short videos. Others prefer a live session where they can ask questions. Some prefer written step-by-step guides they can print. There are often free webinars and tutorials offered by software providers, professional bodies, and business support organisations.

If you find training overwhelming, narrow the scope. Instead of “learn bookkeeping,” focus on “learn how to capture receipts weekly,” then “learn how to reconcile bank transactions,” then “learn how to review your profit and loss report.” Bite-sized learning is more realistic for sole traders who are busy or anxious.

In-person support can also be transformative. Local workshops, small business hubs, and community learning centres sometimes run sessions on basic bookkeeping, digital skills, and using common software tools. The value is not only the information but the reassurance that others are in the same boat.

Peer support: communities, networks, and “someone to ask”

One of the hardest parts of being a sole trader is that you often feel like you’re doing everything alone. Peer support can fill a gap that official guidance can’t: emotional reassurance and real-life tips from people who have already navigated the same problems.

Peer support can take many forms: local business networks, trade associations, online communities for freelancers, or informal groups of self-employed people who meet regularly. The benefit is that you can ask practical questions—“How do you track mileage?” “What’s the quickest way to log receipts?” “How often do you reconcile?”—and receive answers from people who have tried different approaches.

Be mindful, though: peer advice is not the same as professional advice, and people’s situations vary. Use peer support to learn workflows and reduce isolation, but verify anything that sounds like a firm rule with an official source or a professional.

If you’re anxious, having “someone to ask” can prevent procrastination. A quick message to a fellow sole trader or a community forum can be enough to stop a small confusion from becoming a week-long block.

Practical support for cashflow problems and financial stress

For many sole traders, the real struggle with MTD is not technology—it’s cashflow. When money is tight, admin can slide down the priority list, especially if you’re focused on finding work, collecting late payments, or covering essential expenses. The stress of financial pressure can also reduce your capacity to learn new systems.

If cashflow is the issue, support may need to address the underlying financial strain. This might include budgeting help, debt advice, or a plan to stabilise your business finances. If you’re behind on tax, you may be able to arrange a manageable payment plan rather than letting the situation worsen. The key is to act early: the earlier you talk to the right people, the more options you tend to have.

It’s also worth looking at small operational changes that improve cashflow and reduce admin: switching to faster invoicing, taking deposits, tightening payment terms, and automating reminders. Many software platforms can help with invoicing and payment chasing, which indirectly reduces MTD stress because your finances become clearer and more predictable.

Some sole traders avoid looking at their numbers because it triggers anxiety. But gentle financial support—especially from a non-judgemental adviser—can make the difference between avoidance and action.

Mental health and wellbeing support: when MTD becomes the tipping point

Compliance changes can become a tipping point when you’re already carrying too much. If MTD is causing sleepless nights, panic, or feelings of failure, that’s not a small thing. It’s a sign you need support that goes beyond “how to use software.”

Wellbeing support might include speaking to your GP, accessing talking therapies, or using self-employed focused wellbeing resources. It could also mean building a support structure in your business: outsourcing part of your admin, setting boundaries with clients, and creating a sustainable routine that prevents last-minute stress.

Some people benefit from “accountability support” rather than technical training. For example, a weekly co-working session (virtual or in-person) where you do admin alongside others can reduce procrastination and isolation. If you’re dealing with neurodiversity, anxiety, or depression, structuring tasks into small steps and using reminders can be more helpful than trying to power through with willpower alone.

It’s also okay to acknowledge grief, burnout, or life disruption. Sole traders often keep going through difficult personal circumstances, and compliance deadlines can feel harsh. If you’re in that situation, seeking help early—whether practical or emotional—is a strength, not a weakness.

Help with organisation: building a simple MTD routine you can actually maintain

One of the most effective supports for sole traders is not a person or a helpline—it’s a routine. A good routine turns a scary, vague obligation into a set of small, predictable actions.

A workable routine is usually short and frequent rather than long and rare. For many people, 20–30 minutes a week is easier than a full day once a quarter. A weekly routine might include: photographing or uploading receipts, checking that invoices have been issued, and reviewing bank transactions. A monthly routine might include: reconciling the bank, checking that categories make sense, and making a quick note of anything unusual.

Support can come from templates and checklists. Some accountants provide them. Some software providers include them. You can also create your own simple checklist and keep it visible. The checklist should be realistic. If you hate admin, don’t set yourself a complex process that requires hours of concentration; you’ll avoid it. Choose the minimum that keeps you compliant and in control.

If you’re behind, the routine starts with a catch-up plan. Catch-up is best tackled in time blocks: pick a month or a week at a time, not “everything.” Support from a bookkeeper can be particularly valuable here because they can bring order quickly and stop catch-up from eating your life.

Support for choosing the right software: fit matters more than features

Choosing software can be paralysing, especially if you’re worried about cost or making the wrong choice. Support here often means narrowing down options based on your real needs.

Ask yourself a few practical questions. Do you need invoicing? Do you have lots of cash transactions or mainly bank payments? Do you work on the go? Do you have regular expenses that can be auto-categorised? Do you want your accountant to access your records? Your answers point toward a simple shortlist.

If you’re very small and your transactions are limited, a simple product may be best. If you have many transactions or multiple income streams, automation features may be worth paying for. If you’re growing and plan to hire or register for VAT, you may want software that can scale with you. The “best” software is the one you’ll actually use consistently without resentment.

Support can also include a trial period with guidance. Many providers offer trial access, and some accountants will help you test the workflow before you commit. If you’re stuck, choose one solution and commit to learning it for a month. Constant switching creates more stress than picking a “good enough” option and building a habit.

Support for those who are already behind: what to do when it feels too late

A lot of sole traders seek support only when they’re already behind—behind on records, behind on submissions, or simply overwhelmed. If that’s you, the most important thing is not to spiral. Being behind is common, and it’s solvable with a calm, structured approach.

The first step is to stabilise: gather your bank statements, invoices, receipts, and any spreadsheets or notebooks you’ve used. Don’t aim for perfection. Aim for completeness: you want a full picture of income and expenses. The second step is to pick a catch-up method. If your records are a mess, consider professional help even for a short period. A bookkeeper can often untangle months of chaos faster than you can alone, and the cost may be worth the reduction in stress and the avoidance of errors.

The third step is to simplify your categories. Overly detailed categorisation can slow you down and increase uncertainty. For most sole traders, a simple set of expense categories is enough, as long as it’s consistent and sensible. The fourth step is to implement a forward routine so you don’t end up in catch-up mode again.

If you’re worried about penalties, don’t avoid the situation. Avoidance increases risk. Speaking to an agent or adviser can help you understand what’s required and how to approach remediation.

Support through business organisations and local services

Many sole traders don’t realise how much local and sector-based support exists. Business support organisations, growth hubs, trade associations, and local enterprise services often provide workshops, advice sessions, or signposting for financial management and digital adoption.

If you work in a particular trade—construction, creative industries, personal services, consulting—your trade association or professional body may offer tailored guidance. This can be more useful than generic advice because it reflects common expense types, invoicing patterns, and compliance challenges in your sector.

Local services can be especially valuable if you need in-person help. Some people learn faster when someone sits next to them and shows them how to do something. If you’re digitally excluded or anxious, this kind of support can be far more effective than reading online guidance alone.

Support for improving record quality: avoiding common mistakes

One of the hidden struggles with MTD is the fear that you’ll keep records incorrectly. Support here is about understanding a few common pitfalls and building simple checks.

A common mistake is mixing personal and business transactions. If you use a personal bank account for business, you can still keep records, but it often adds confusion. A separate business account can reduce admin dramatically. Another common issue is missing receipts or not recording cash transactions promptly. Receipt capture apps and a weekly upload habit help here.

Mis-categorising expenses can also create stress. Support from an accountant or bookkeeper can help you create categories that match your business, and software rules can automate many decisions. Finally, failing to reconcile your bank means your records can drift away from reality. Reconciliation is one of the most powerful habits for confidence: when your bank matches your records, you feel in control.

Support doesn’t have to be complicated. A monthly “mini review” where you check bank reconciliation, look at your profit and loss report, and make notes of unusual items can prevent bigger problems later.

Support for time-poor sole traders: reducing admin without losing control

If you’re time-poor, your support needs to focus on reducing manual tasks. Automation is your friend. Bank feeds, invoice templates, recurring invoices, and automatic reminders can save hours. Transaction rules that categorise regular payments can prevent a backlog. Receipt capture that links receipts to transactions reduces the time spent searching for evidence later.

Delegation is also a form of support. Even if you don’t want full outsourcing, a small monthly bookkeeping service can be enough. Another approach is “batching”: set one fixed time each week to deal with admin, and treat it like a client appointment you can’t cancel.

The goal is not to become obsessed with bookkeeping. The goal is to have a system that quietly keeps you compliant and gives you enough visibility to make decisions. The best support is the kind you don’t have to think about every day.

Support for new sole traders: building the right habits early

If you’re relatively new to self-employment, you have an advantage: you can build digital habits before old routines harden. Support here is about setup and education. Start with a separate bank account, a simple invoicing process, and a way to capture receipts immediately. Decide how often you’ll do admin and stick to it.

New sole traders often underestimate how quickly small admin tasks accumulate. A weekly routine prevents overwhelm. It also helps you understand your business earlier—what you’re earning, what you’re spending, and whether you need to adjust pricing. That knowledge is a form of support in itself, because uncertainty is stressful.

Consider an initial session with an accountant or bookkeeper even if you plan to manage things yourself. A short professional setup can prevent months of confusion and reduce the risk of building a system that doesn’t work.

Support for changing circumstances: when your business evolves

Your support needs may change as your business changes. You might start alone and later subcontract work. You might move from a handful of invoices to dozens. You might begin selling products rather than services, bringing stock management into the mix. Or you might register for VAT, increasing complexity.

Support at this stage often means upgrading processes rather than starting over. A bookkeeper can help you implement more robust categorisation. An accountant can advise on structure and tax efficiency. Software can be upgraded to include inventory tools or project tracking. The key is to anticipate change early so you don’t end up in a reactive scramble.

If you notice your admin time creeping up, that’s a sign to seek support. The earlier you adjust your system, the easier it is.

How to choose the right kind of support for your situation

Because “support” is broad, it helps to match the type of support to the kind of struggle you have.

If you don’t understand what’s required, start with clear guidance and a short call with a professional. If you understand the rules but hate admin, focus on automation and outsourcing. If you’re anxious about mistakes, seek a review process—someone to check your work periodically. If you’re behind, prioritise catch-up support and a plan. If your struggle is rooted in digital exclusion, look for assisted digital help and accessible tools. And if your struggle is stress and burnout, prioritise wellbeing support and reduce your workload through delegation.

It’s also fine to use layered support. Many sole traders combine software support (tutorials), peer support (a community), and professional support (a quarterly review). You don’t have to pick just one.

Steps you can take today to make MTD feel less overwhelming

If you’re struggling right now, a few immediate actions can reduce pressure quickly.

First, write down what specifically is hard. Is it choosing software? Is it catching up? Is it fear of penalties? Is it not understanding categories? Naming the problem helps you find the right support. Second, pick a single next action, not ten. For example: book a call with a bookkeeper, start a software trial, or reconcile one month of bank transactions.

Third, gather your documents and create one place for them—digital folder, box, or app. Even basic organisation is progress. Fourth, set a recurring short admin slot. The key is consistency, not intensity. Fifth, tell someone—an accountant, a peer, a friend—that you’re struggling. Isolation magnifies stress. Support becomes real when you involve another person.

Finally, be realistic. MTD is a change in routine, and routine change takes time. You don’t need to become perfect overnight. You need a sustainable process that keeps you moving forward.

Conclusion: you don’t have to handle MTD alone

Making Tax Digital can be challenging for sole traders, but struggling does not mean you’re failing. It often means the system you have is not yet aligned with the requirements, your time constraints, or your personal circumstances. The most effective support is the support that removes friction: clear guidance, a simple routine, accessible tools, and the right level of professional help.

Whether you need basic training, a software walkthrough, a bookkeeper to keep you on track, an accountant to provide reassurance, or broader support for stress and cashflow, options exist. The key is choosing support that matches your situation and taking one step at a time. MTD becomes far less intimidating when you have a workable system and someone you trust to help you navigate it.

With the right support, digital record keeping can shift from a source of worry to a tool that gives you more visibility and control over your business. The goal isn’t just compliance—it’s confidence.