MTD software for sole traders, landlords or both
Most mainstream MTD software covers sole traders and landlords in the same product. A handful of tools are built specifically for landlords, and one popular free tier, Sage Sole Trader's, is sole-trader only. Which fits depends on your situation, not just your budget.
If you're a sole trader only
Most full-product software fits, including free routes through a qualifying bank account. Sage Sole Trader's permanently free tier is a genuine non-VAT, sole-trader-only option if you don't bank with a free-route provider.
If you're a landlord only
General MTD software works for landlords too, but dedicated landlord tools like Hammock and Landlord Studio are built specifically around property record-keeping, multiple properties and rent tracking, rather than general bookkeeping with property support added on.
If you're both
You need a product that covers both self-employment and property in one place. Most mainstream full-product software does. The landlord-specific tools above, and Sage Sole Trader's free tier, do not cover both, so check this before choosing on price alone.
Common questions
Can one product handle both my self-employment and my rental income?
Yes. Most mainstream full-product software handles self-employment and property income in the same account, with separate quarterly updates for each.
Is Sage Sole Trader really sole traders only?
Yes. Sage Sole Trader's permanently free tier is for non-VAT sole traders only, not landlords, within its usage caps.
Do dedicated landlord tools actually file MTD updates?
Hammock, for example, lists MTD quarterly updates and the Final Declaration on all its tiers (from basic (1–3 properties)), built specifically around property record-keeping rather than added on top of general accounting software. Check each product's own current listing before relying on it.
What if I already use spreadsheets instead of an app?
A bridging-software route exists that keeps your spreadsheets and adds the digital link MTD requires, covered in our spreadsheets and bridging software guides.