TaxCalc vs TaxUpdates
Both are bridging tools for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax.
TaxUpdates is the cheaper starting point at £0 (VAT included) versus from £134.40/yr for TaxCalc — but the cheapest plan only wins if it covers the income types you actually have.
| TaxCalc | TaxUpdates | |
|---|---|---|
| True annual cost from | from £134.40/yr | £0 |
| Self-employment | Yes | Yes |
| Property / rent | Yes | Yes |
| Keeps your spreadsheet | Yes | Yes |
| Accountant access | Yes | No |
| Type | bridging | bridging |
| HMRC status | Recognised | Recognised |
| Price verified | 2026-08-10 | 2026-08-10 |
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
TaxUpdates
Free bridging with unusually broad coverage: quarterly updates, year-end adjustments and the final declaration, for self-employment, UK and foreign property — including multiple businesses.
- Spreadsheet keepers who want free filing end to end
- People with several income sources, including foreign property
Not sure either is right? Use the finder to get a recommendation ranked by what it will actually cost you.
Prices are each tool's cheapest plan, VAT included, last verified 10 August 2026 (catalogue reconciled 10 August 2026). Links are affiliate links and never affect ranking. Not affiliated with HMRC; not tax advice.