VAT Bridging Software: Why Spreadsheets Still Work in 2026

Making Tax Digital for VAT (MTD for VAT) has been part of business life for years, but many businesses still ask whether spreadsheets remain acceptable.

They do. The important requirement is that VAT records are kept digitally and that VAT returns are submitted through compatible software. A spreadsheet on its own cannot submit to HMRC, but bridging software can connect spreadsheet figures to HMRC’s MTD systems.

Easy MTD is designed for businesses and agents who want to keep using Excel, text or CSV files. It can be used to submit VAT returns, view VAT obligations, and review VAT liabilities, payments and penalties.

This is particularly useful for businesses with established spreadsheet processes, older accounting software, or simple VAT affairs that do not justify a full cloud accounting subscription.

If your spreadsheet already calculates the nine VAT return boxes, the key is choosing software that can import or read those figures and submit them digitally.

For many businesses, VAT bridging software remains the simplest and most cost-effective way to comply with MTD for VAT.

Find Out More

If you would like to find out more about Easy MTD, please browse the pages of this website or ask a question using the contact form.