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Not sure if your work counts for R&D tax relief? You’re not alone. We break down what HMRC means by Qualifying R&D Activities, with clear explanations, practical examples, and tips to help you avoid common mistakes. Whether you’re building something new or solving tricky technical problems, we’ll help you figure out what qualifies and how to make your claim count.
Claiming R&D Tax Relief for subcontracted work can be complex, especially with new rules from April 2024. This article explains what qualifies as subcontracted R&D, who can claim under the updated scheme, and what records you need to support your claim. From contracts and invoices to technical reports and emails, having the right documentation is key to staying compliant and avoiding HMRC enquiries.
Applying for the EIC Accelerator can be a game-changing opportunity for startups and SMEs with breakthrough innovations, but the process is complex and highly competitive. We highlight common mistakes applicants make, such as unclear innovation narratives, weak commercialisation strategies, and poor preparation, and provide practical advice on how to avoid them.
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 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.
Assists organisations in accessing research and development grant funding across a range of UK and EU schemes and industry sectors.
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