R&D Tax Credit Claims & Strategy for UK Innovators
UK businesses leave millions unclaimed every year. If you are solving technical problems, the government wants to pay for it. We ensure you claim safely.
What did you develop?
HMRC cares about *what* you did, not just the cost.
Select an option above to test eligibility.
"The era of 'free money' is over. HMRC is rejecting vague claims. You need a technical report, not just numbers."
Defensible Claims Only
We don't do "cookie-cutter" R&D. We build claims based on the BEIS guidelines, ensuring every project meets the criteria of "Technical Uncertainty" and "Advance in Science".
HMRC Crackdown
HMRC has recruited hundreds of new inspectors specifically to audit R&D claims. "Copy-paste" reports now trigger enquiries.
The "Science" Test
You cannot claim for just "doing difficult work". It must be an advance in the overall field, not just for your company.
Subcontractor Rules
Recent rule changes restrict claims for overseas subcontractors. You need to know exactly who did the work and where.
How We Build A Robust Claim
Feasibility Call
A 20-minute call with our R&D specialist. We ask: "What problem were you trying to solve?" and "Why was it hard?" to establish basic eligibility.
Technical Interview
We interview your lead engineer/developer/scientist. We extract the technical details needed to write a robust report that satisfies HMRC's definitions.
Financial Quantification
We map your staff time, software costs, and consumables to the specific projects. We ensure every penny claimed is attributable and evidenced.
Report & Submission
We write the technical narrative and prepare the CT600. We submit the "Additional Information Form" directly to HMRC on your behalf.
Benefit Realisation
HMRC typically processes payments in 4-6 weeks. You receive a cash credit or a reduction in your Corporation Tax bill.
What You Receive
Technical Narrative Report
Defensible project descriptions.
Cost Schedule
Detailed breakdown of qualifying spend.
CT600 Amendment
Filing the claim via the tax return.
Additional Info Form
Mandatory digital submission.
Enquiry Defence
We answer HMRC questions for you.
Future Planning
Advice on structuring future projects.
The Perceptive Difference
We only charge if the claim is successful (Subject to terms).
Book Feasibility Call"The report was so detailed, HMRC passed it without a single query."
— Engineering Director
Which Scheme Are You?
The rules changed in April 2024. Most clients fall into the SME scheme or the new Merged scheme.
SME R&D Relief
Best for: < 500 Staff
Highest Rates
For small and medium companies. If you are profitable, it reduces your tax bill. If you are loss-making, you can surrender the loss for a cash credit (worth up to 18.6% - 27% of spend depending on "R&D Intensive" status).
Merged Scheme
Best for: Large or Subsidised
Global Standard
For large companies or SMEs who have received grants/subsidies for their projects. The new "Merged Scheme" (April 2024) simplifies this, offering a taxable credit "Above the Line" in your accounts.
Sectors We Specialise In
Software & Dev
New algorithms, architectures, or integration layers.
Manufacturing
Process improvements, prototyping, material science.
Engineering
Solving structural or mechanical instability issues.
Food & Drink
New formulations, shelf-life extension, dietary innovations.
Common Questions
You must be seeking an advance in science or technology, and overcoming 'technical uncertainty' that a competent professional could not easily solve. It is not just about commercial innovation.
Yes. In fact, loss-making companies can surrender their loss for a cash credit from HMRC (up to 27p for every £1 spent in some cases).
You can claim for your two previous accounting periods. If you have just passed your year end, you can effectively claim for the last 2 years.
Staff costs (salary, NI, pension), subcontractors (subject to restrictions), software licences, consumables (heat, light, materials), and payments to clinical trial volunteers.
