HMRC is set to eliminate paper letters for millions of taxpayers starting in April of the following year. The tax office had previously announced plans to transition to a “digital by default” approach to save £50 million annually by 2028/29.
In the recent Budget announcement, it was confirmed that the gradual phase-out of paper communications will commence in April 2026. Consequently, taxpayers will receive digital correspondence in their HMRC online accounts or via the HMRC app. HMRC will continue to send letters to households without internet access or facing difficulties with digital services, while their phone lines will remain operational.
Taxpayers who prefer to receive paper letters can opt to continue doing so. Initially, individuals already utilizing the HMRC app, online Personal Tax Account (PTA), or Business Tax Account (BTA) will be impacted. HMRC will prompt individuals to verify their contact details once the rollout begins, as letters are dispatched for various reasons such as tax code changes or self-assessment registration requirements.
HMRC disclosed that over 200,000 letters have been issued to sole traders and landlords with qualifying income exceeding £50,000. These individuals will soon need to submit quarterly updates using HMRC-approved software if their turnover surpasses £50,000 from self-employment or property income. Although the rollout begins in April 2026, HMRC advises individuals to prepare for the change in advance.
Taxpayers will need suitable software for compliance, with both free and paid options available. The software provides real-time tax bill estimates, aiding in cash flow management and preventing surprises in January. Users currently employing spreadsheets or accounting software can find compatible options that meet the new requirements.
Craig Ogilvie, Making Tax Digital director, emphasized the importance of preparing for the upcoming changes, highlighting that tax administration will be spread throughout the year under Making Tax Digital for Income Tax. Free software alternatives are accessible, and early feedback suggests the system is user-friendly once individuals become familiar with it.