The introduction of Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax represents one of the most significant changes to the UK tax system in a generation. While the initiative has been discussed for several years, many taxpayers and advisers are now approaching a critical stage as implementation deadlines draw closer.

The question is no longer whether MTD is coming, but whether taxpayers are genuinely prepared for what it will mean in practice for the first filing deadline in August.

Awareness of MTD has undoubtedly improved over the past 12 months. HMRC, professional bodies and accountancy firms have all increased communication efforts, and many taxpayers have at least heard of the reforms.