As the April 2026 deadline for implementing the first phase of Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax approaches, accountants must prepare themselves and their clients for the transition. With this significant change on the horizon, developing a structured communications plan is essential to ensure that all stakeholders are informed and ready. This blog outlines a step-by-step approach for accountants to start marketing MTD for Income Tax to their clients who will be mandated to join the scheme from April 2026.
Autumn 2024: Laying the groundwork for marketing MTD for Income Tax
Website updates
The first step in marketing MTD for Income Tax should involve updating your firm’s website with relevant information. Create a dedicated page or section that explains MTD for Income Tax, its implications, and how your firm can help clients transition smoothly. People are already starting to ask questions about it and how it will affect them, so having this information on your website now allows you to be found in search results and showcases your accountancy firm as a credible advisor to who they can turn.
Email announcements
If you haven’t done so already, begin with light-touch communications. Send an email to all clients informing them about the upcoming changes. The email should include a brief overview of MTD for Income Tax, key dates, and what clients should expect moving forward. Encourage clients to contact you if they have any questions or concerns. You may want to send different emails depending on how MTD for Income Tax will or won’t affect them.
Client meetings
During client meetings, take a few minutes to discuss MTD for Income Tax. Ensure that clients understand the basics and know you will support them through the transition. This is also a great time to assess which clients might need more hands-on assistance and to start planning for those needs.
Social media posts
Use your firm’s social media channels to raise awareness. Share informative posts, articles, or infographics that explain MTD for Income Tax in simple terms. Regular posts about this topic will keep it on your clients’ radar and position your firm as proactive and knowledgeable.
Spring 2025: Increasing awareness and engagement
Newsletter mentions
As we move into Spring 2025, start including more detailed mentions of MTD for Income Tax in your newsletters. Highlight the importance of early preparation, share any updates from HMRC, and provide tips on how clients can start organising their financial records in anticipation of the new system.
Client workshops and webinars
By this time, it’s advisable to organise workshops or webinars to give clients a deeper understanding of MTD for Income Tax. These sessions should cover the technical aspects of the transition, such as which accounting software will be compatible and how clients can integrate it into their existing systems. Providing step-by-step guidance and live demonstrations will be highly beneficial.
Promote these workshops through your website, social media channels, and direct emails to ensure maximum attendance. Consider recording these sessions so clients who cannot attend live can watch them at their convenience.
Leaflets and printed materials
For clients who prefer traditional communication methods, consider sending leaflets or printed guides summarising the key points of MTD for Income Tax. These materials can be distributed during client meetings, mailed directly to clients or handed out at networking events.
Autumn 2025: Regular and detailed communication
Monthly updates
As the deadline nears, increase the frequency of your communications. Send monthly updates via email or your newsletter, focusing on specific MTD for Income Tax aspects. These updates could include reminders about upcoming deadlines, tips for digital record-keeping, or reviews of different accounting software options.
One-on-one consultations
Consider offering one-on-one consultations for clients needing extra help transitioning to the new system. This personalised approach will not only ensure compliance but also strengthen client relationships.
Social media campaigns
Incorporate a more robust social media campaign focusing on countdowns, reminders, and last-minute tips. Use hashtags related to MTD for Income Tax and encourage your followers to share your posts to increase reach.
Early 2026: Final push
Last-minute webinars and workshops
In the months leading up to April 2026, host additional webinars or workshops to address any lingering concerns or last-minute questions. Ensure that all clients have selected and set up the appropriate accounting software.
Final reminders and support
Send final reminder emails, emphasising the importance of being ready by the April deadline. Offer support for any last-minute issues and ensure your clients know how to reach you if they need assistance.
Conclusion: The importance of early and consistent communication when marketing MTD for Income Tax
Marketing MTD for Income Tax effectively requires a well-structured and proactive communication plan. By starting early and gradually increasing the frequency and depth of your communications, you can ensure your clients are well-prepared for the transition. Not only will this approach help your clients avoid any penalties, but it will also position your firm as a trusted partner in navigating the complexities of tax compliance.
Now is the time to start planning—April 2026 will be here before we know it!
Need help with marketing MTD for Income Tax to your clients?
The above blog sets out a selection of marketing activities you should implement to communicate the changes MTD for Income Tax will bring. However, there are many different marketing formats which you can adopt.
If you want more details or help writing copy for your website, emails, newsletters or other marketing materials, please contact me on 01822 833300 or email vicki@momentumforprofessionals.co.uk.
