APARI vs TaxCalc
Both are guided tax filer tools for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax.
TaxCalc is the cheaper starting point at from £134.40/yr (VAT included) versus from £144/yr for APARI — but the cheapest plan only wins if it covers the income types you actually have.
| APARI | TaxCalc | |
|---|---|---|
| True annual cost from | from £144/yr | from £134.40/yr |
| Self-employment | Yes | Yes |
| Property / rent | Yes | Yes |
| Keeps your spreadsheet | No | Yes |
| Accountant access | No | Yes |
| Type | guided tax filer | guided tax filer |
| HMRC status | Recognised | Recognised |
| Price verified | 2026-06-24 | 2026-06-24 |
APARI
An MTD specialist (now ApariPro) from the original HMRC pilot, covering self-employment and property with pre-filled returns and a 30-day free trial.
- People who want an MTD-first tool
- Those who value pre-filled, guided returns
TaxCalc
A long-established self assessment tool with MTD bridging. Desktop-based, thorough, and trusted by people who already do their own returns.
- People who already file their own self assessment
- Those who prefer desktop software
Not sure either is right? Use the finder to get a recommendation ranked by what it will actually cost you.
Prices are the cheapest plan that covers a typical sole trader or landlord, VAT included, last verified 24 June 2026 (catalogue reconciled 24 June 2026). Links are affiliate links and never affect ranking. Not affiliated with HMRC; not tax advice.