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If your business is developing new products, processes, or technologies, you could benefit from claiming R&D Tax Relief. But before you dive in, it's important to understand the tax implications that come with it. We explain how the relief works under both the SME and RDEC schemes, the impact it can have on your finances, and how to avoid common mistakes. Whether you're new to R&D tax claims or looking to strengthen your current approach, we'll help you stay on the right side of HMRC.
A detailed summary of the First-tier Tribunal’s decision in Realbuzz Group Ltd v HMRC (May 2025), focusing on the limits of HMRC’s discovery assessment powers in relation to R&D tax relief claims. We touch on key tribunal issues including the “hypothetical officer” test, the importance of adequate disclosure, and the legal protections available to taxpayers. The ruling offers important guidance for companies claiming R&D tax credits and clarifies HMRC’s ability to revisit prior-year claims.
We’re proud to share that TBAT Innovation has successfully completed an extraordinary coast-to-coast cycling challenge across the Scottish Highlands. The ride was undertaken to raise awareness and vital funds for Stand Against MND, a charity founded by our late colleague, Sam Perkins.
The May 2025 Research & Development Communication Forum (RDCF) returned to an in-person format for the first time since the pandemic. Held in a historic setting with a focus on open dialogue, the forum covered key updates from HMRC, including policy changes, operational performance, and ongoing efforts to improve the R&D claims process. In this article, we share updates from the RDCF and our reflections on what it all means for businesses and advisors moving forward.
TBAT Innovation has been named the winner of the Innovation in Service Delivery Award at the prestigious Medilink Midlands Business Awards 2025. The award, sponsored by Datalink Electronics, recognises TBAT Innovation’s impactful Innovation Challenge – a flagship initiative supporting innovation-driven UK SMEs.
HMRC has tightened its compliance process for R&D tax claims, increasing scrutiny and the likelihood of rejections. This article explains the latest requirements, including the Additional Information Form, HMRC’s digital risk assessments, and how businesses can respond if a claim is challenged or denied. Discover how to prevent claim rejections and get expert guidance from TBAT Innovation if your R&D tax claim is challenged by HMRC.
HMRC has launched two open consultations as of March 2025 that could significantly impact tax advisers and businesses claiming R&D tax relief. One aims to strengthen enforcement against non-compliant tax advisers, while the other looks to improve the underused Advance Assurance scheme for R&D tax relief. These developments follow last year's broader "Raising Standards" consultation, which is still in progress.
Thinking about claiming tax relief for your video game project? If you're developing games in the UK, it’s important to understand the two available support schemes, Video Game Tax Relief (VGTR) and the newer Video Games Expenditure Credit (VGEC). Each comes with its own rules, benefits, and eligibility criteria, and the choice between them can have a real impact on your claim.
As HMRC continues to reform the R&D tax relief system, a key new requirement is catching many businesses by surprise: the Claim Notification Form. This form is now mandatory in certain cases before a company can submit an R&D tax claim, and missing the deadline can mean losing out on valuable tax relief altogether. For accountants, staying ahead of this change is essential.
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has confirmed that UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) is set to receive a substantial budget of £8.8 billion for the 2025–2026 financial year. Explore the changes, and what the 2025-2026 UKRI budget means for the future of UK Research and Innovation.
Assists organisations in accessing research and development grant funding across a range of UK and EU schemes and industry sectors.
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