What order do I need to do things in?

First create sign-in details, then register for Self Assessment if needed, then sign up for Making Tax Digital if it applies to you.

MTD Learning Centre

Government Gateway and MTD: having an account is not the same as signing up

Q: Does having a Government Gateway account mean I'm signed up for MTD?

No. Government Gateway or GOV.UK One Login is a way to sign in. Signing up for Making Tax Digital is a separate action.

Does having a Government Gateway account mean I'm signed up for MTD?

No. A Government Gateway account is a login. Signing up for Making Tax Digital is a separate action.

What is a Government Gateway account?

It is the front door key to HMRC online. GOV.UK One Login is gradually replacing Government Gateway for new users, but it is still a sign-in route, not MTD registration.

The three steps people confuse

First, create sign-in details. Second, register for Self Assessment if you need to. Third, sign up for Making Tax Digital if your qualifying income means it applies to you.

If you already have a Government Gateway account

Check Self Assessment, check your qualifying income, then use the GOV.UK MTD sign-up service if you need to sign up.

If you don't have a Government Gateway account

Use HMRC's sign-in page, then register for Self Assessment if needed.

Sources HMRC online services: sign in or set up an account — GOV.UK Accessing HMRC online services using GOV.UK One Login — GOV.UK Check how to register for Self Assessment — GOV.UK Sign up for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax — GOV.UK