Software by sector
"Best accounting software" is close to a meaningless question. The right answer depends entirely on what kind of business you are running.
Charities and non-profits
Fund accounting, SORP reporting and Gift Aid are where generic software quietly falls over. Currently the thinnest independent coverage of any sector.
Sole traders and the self-employed
The biggest group, and the one Making Tax Digital is about to reach. Simpler needs than most software assumes.
Landlords and property
Property income has its own rules, and the MTD thresholds apply here too.
Construction and CIS
The Construction Industry Scheme is the thing that rules most general accounting software out.
Making Tax Digital
Qualifying income over £30,000 brings you in from April 2027, and over £20,000 from April 2028. Qualifying income is turnover before expenses, and income from self-employment and property is added together.
Check the current rules on GOV.UK rather than relying on any website, including this one.