Questions & Answers
We answer your most common questions about Making Tax Digital
1. Can I use my own spreadsheet? Yes
You can carry on using your existing Excel spreadsheet as long as you calculate the 9-box VAT totals. Then you will need to specify in Tax Optimiser the sheet and cells to extract the data from. Finally, use our upload section to bridge the Excel file to send to HMRC.
2. Do you support older versions of Excel or other spreadsheet software like LibreOffice or OpenOffice? Yes
We support Excel 97 onwards. We have also had clients successfully use our software with a range of other spreadsheet software. If you have any doubt, feel free to sign up and try it out.
3. I am using Sage 50 / Sage 200 / Access Dimensions / SAP B1 ... Can I use your Tax Optimiser? ... Yes
As long as you are able to export an Excel/CSV file from your existing system or software, you can upload it to Tax Optimiser to extract the data and submit it to HMRC. All you need to do in the VAT settings is set what sheet and cells to extract the data from. We have had clients successfully use our software on a range of software including all versions of Sage Line 100, Sage Instant, Sage 50, Sage 200 and Access Dimensions.
4. Can I just type my VAT totals into a spreadsheet and send it through Tax Optimiser? No
As part of the new legislation, you cannot just manually add up the totals and key them into the spreadsheet. All the values need to be calculated either from software or formulas within the spreadsheet.
5. I have a bespoke system. How would I use your software?
You will just need to output an Excel/CSV file with the 9-box totals calculated. You can then upload your Excel spreadsheet into our software to send it to HMRC.
6. If I just want to use your MTD for Self Assessment, do I have to have the VAT Module? No
No, the MTD for Self Assessment and VAT modules run independently of each other. You can use either module separately based on your needs.
7. Can Tax Optimiser be white-labelled?
There is the ability to add your own logos, brand colours and your own web address, e.g. https://mtd.acmeaccountants.com.