We aim to keep you informed, inquisitive, intrigued
and entertained
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.
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.
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.
In the Spring Statement of March 2025, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced proposed reforms to the UK's £8 billion research and development (R&D) tax credit scheme. A key proposal is the potential introduction of mandatory advance assurances, requiring companies to confirm the eligibility of their projects for R&D tax credits before submitting claims.
HMRC Fraud Investigation Service (FIS) is a dedicated team within HMRC that scrutinises claims for potential fraud. Facing an investigation by the HMRC Fraud Investigation Service can be daunting, but the key is to stay engaged and provide all necessary information. Explore the steps of an investigation in our latest article.
An overview of HMRC’s updated guidance on subsidised and subcontracted R&D expenditures. We outline key differences between SME and Large Company Schemes and provide a summary on the CIRD81650 and CIRD84250 updates.
Though the New RDEC looks very similar in operation to the old RDEC, there are some significant differences about who can claim under different circumstances and what costs can be included. Our latest article covers sub-contractor costs, the exclusion of foreign subcontractor and EPW costs, who contemplated the R&D and SME self funded projects.
Assists organisations in accessing research and development grant funding across a range of UK and EU schemes and industry sectors.
Get In Touch
Call 
Back
