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 | 2026-07-06 | 2026-07-06 |
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 6 July 2026 (catalogue reconciled 6 July 2026). Links are affiliate links and never affect ranking. Not affiliated with HMRC; not tax advice.