If you keep your books in a spreadsheet, bridging software is one way to file under Making Tax Digital. Here is what it is, when you actually need it, and why full recognised software is usually the cleaner, safer fix.
Bridging software is a digital bridge between a spreadsheet and HMRC. It takes the figures from your spreadsheet and submits them in the format MTD requires, without you retyping anything into HMRC directly.
Bridging software lets spreadsheet users file under MTD. Full accounting software does the same job and keeps your records, digital links and returns together, with nothing to bolt on.
Bridging exists for one situation: you want to keep your records in a spreadsheet but still meet MTD's requirement to file digitally through recognised software. The bridge carries the numbers across the gap.
Clear Books is HMRC-recognised MTD software, so filing is built in, there is no separate bridge to maintain. If you are moving off spreadsheets, that removes the weakest link entirely.
Records flow through to your submission inside one system, so there are no broken links to worry about.
Records, quarterly updates and returns live together, instead of a spreadsheet plus a bridge plus manual checks.
Bring your existing figures in to get started, then let the software keep them tidy from there.
Keep digital records, file quarterly updates and submit your final declaration, all in one place. Free for sole traders, with no filing paywall.
Keep your records, digital links and submissions in one recognised system. Clear Books is free for sole traders, with no filing paywall.
