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Score a VAT software product
A general checklist based on HMRC VAT Notice 700/22 and HMRC's software finder.
Step 1: Check HMRC's software finder
HMRC's software finder for Making Tax Digital for VAT lists software that has been through HMRC's recognition process. You can filter it by what you need, such as bridging software, software for agents or a free version. If a product you are considering is not listed, ask the provider why, and ask to see how it connects to HMRC.
Step 2: Match it to how you keep records
| You keep records in | Choose |
|---|---|
| A spreadsheet that works well | Bridging software: upload your nine box totals as a file and file |
| Accounting software already | Its own VAT filing, if it is on HMRC's list |
| Paper, or nothing yet | Start a spreadsheet or accounting software first, as MTD needs digital records |
Both routes meet Making Tax Digital. See bridging software vs accounting software.
Step 3: Compare what protects you
- Digital link: figures arrive by file upload or from your records, never retyped.
- Checks before sending: Box 3 and Box 5 worked out, Boxes 6 to 9 in whole pounds. A return cannot be changed once sent.
- Your VAT periods and due dates read from HMRC.
- Reminders before each deadline.
- Plain-English errors when HMRC rejects a return.
- Help from a person by chat, email or phone.
- A clear yearly price, including the cost of each extra business.
- A way out: you can export your data if you leave.
Warning signs
- It asks for your Government Gateway password instead of sending you to HMRC's own sign-in page.
- You have to type your nine box totals in by hand.
- The price is unclear until you have signed up.
- There is no way to contact anyone.
For more on security, see is cloud MTD VAT software safe.
Try Swift VAT Pro against the checklist, from £5 a month
CSV upload from your spreadsheet, every box checked, your periods and due dates from HMRC, reminders and UK support.
- Connect to HMRC on HMRC's own page with your Government Gateway sign-in. We never see that password.
- See your VAT periods, due dates, amounts owed and payments, read from HMRC.
- Upload your nine box totals as a CSV. Box 3 and Box 5 are worked out and every box is checked.
- Submit and keep HMRC's receipt. Reminder emails arrive before each due date.
No card needed · From £5 a month · Plans for up to 100 businesses · Filing through HMRC's MTD service since 2019
Final thoughts
Start with HMRC's list, then match the software to your records, then compare the features that stop penalties and the yearly cost. Try it with a free trial before your next deadline, not on deadline day.
Disclaimer: This guide gives general information, not advice for your business. If you are unsure how the rules apply to you, speak to an accountant or contact HMRC.
Frequently asked questions
Checked against HMRC's software finder, VAT Notice 700/22 and Swift VAT Pro's current features. November 2026.
How do I choose VAT submission software?
Is bridging software allowed under MTD?
How do I know if VAT software is HMRC recognised?
What are the warning signs in VAT software?
Should I try VAT software before my deadline?
Try Swift VAT Pro against the checklist, from £5 a month.
Swift VAT Pro files your return to HMRC from the spreadsheet you already keep. From £5 a month.
No card needed · 2,900+ VAT returns filed since 2019