On 23 September 2025, I attended Accountex Summit Manchester, the North’s biggest accounting and finance event. With over 3,300 attendees, 130 exhibitors, and 65 CPD-accredited seminars, the energy was electric. For me, one of the standout sessions were those led by HMRC and the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB)—both critical voices in shaping our profession’s future.

HMRC Sessions: Preparing for MTD ITSA

The HMRC team focused heavily on Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self-Assessment (MTD ITSA), which goes live in April 2026 for self-employed individuals and landlords earning over £50,000. Key points included:

• Digital Record-Keeping: HMRC stressed that spreadsheets alone won’t cut it—approved software is essential.
• Quarterly Filing: Businesses must submit updates every three months, not just annually.
• Agent Services Account (ASA): Agents need to ensure their ASA is linked correctly for MTD submissions.

They also shared their long-term vision: a fully digital tax system with real-time compliance, reducing errors and improving transparency.

ICB Sessions: The Bookkeeper’s Role in a Digital World

ICB highlighted how bookkeepers can thrive in this new era:

• Client Education: Helping clients understand why digital compliance matters.
• Tech Adoption: Using tools like FreeAgent and QuickBooks to streamline processes.
• Advisory Services: Moving beyond data entry to offer insights and planning.

Why This Matters

These sessions confirmed what we already know: digital transformation isn’t optional—it’s mandatory. At AIM GB LTD, we’re ahead of the curve, implementing MTD-ready solutions and training our team to support clients through these changes.