Bridging software vs full MTD software

Not all MTD tools do the same job. Some just submit figures from a spreadsheet; others keep your records and file. Here’s the difference.

Updated July 2026 · A general guide, not personal tax advice.

What bridging software does

Bridging software is a bolt-on. You keep your records in a spreadsheet, and the bridging tool provides the digital link to submit those figures to HMRC. It satisfies the letter of the rules, but you still do all the bookkeeping — and the calculations — yourself in the spreadsheet.

What full MTD software does

Full software keeps your records for you: it captures income and expenses, applies the tax rules (mileage, finance-cost credit, trading allowance, VAT), computes the figures, and files to HMRC — all in one place, with the digital link built in.

Which is right for you?

• Bridging can suit someone with an established spreadsheet who just needs a way to submit.
• Full software suits anyone who’d rather not maintain a spreadsheet — it does the record-keeping and the maths, and reduces mistakes.

Where FTrak fits

FTrak is full MTD software: it keeps your records, works out the figures, and files to HMRC under MTD (recognition in progress) — so you’re not babysitting a spreadsheet. See features or read how to choose MTD software.