Ian Davie
Senior Consultant
Unveiling the Unseen: The Impact of the Additional Information Form on R&D Tax Relief Claims 4 Months In
In the dynamic landscape of R&D tax relief schemes, a pivotal change has quietly disrupted the routine of many R&D claim providers—the introduction of the Additional Information Form (AIF). Shockingly, over half of the R&D claims submitted in August faced rejection due to the omission of this crucial step. In October and November, the rejection rate was still a high 15%, with HMRC admitting “there is more to do”.
Since our initial coverage in April, R&D advisors have gradually acclimated to this new reality. The increasing Google search volume for “Additional Information Form” underscores the delayed awareness surrounding this process.
Navigating the intricacies of the R&D tax relief scheme can be daunting, especially while managing diverse client services. As seasoned experts in this field, our mission is clear: to demystify the process, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with the latest regulations for our client’s claims.
TBAT are committed to extending our expertise to accountants, equipping you with insights and strategies to adeptly navigate these regulatory shifts.
Understanding the HMRC Additional Information Form:
As of 8th August 2023, the AIF has become central to the R&D tax claim journey.
What does it entail?
Basic Company Information
Contact details
Accounting Details
Expenditure Breakdown
Project Specifics
Project Descriptions
Supplementary Information
Key Reminders
How Can Accountants Pivot?
In the face of these fresh complexities, a strategic reassessment is imperative. HMRC’s heightened scrutiny underscores the need for precision.
TBAT Innovation has proactively adapted to these changes, aligning our process and documentation with the AIF requirements. TBAT then uploads and submits the technical narrative through the AIF before the company’s accountant submits the accounts with the R&D claim. Leveraging degree and PhD qualified technical experts to ensure a company’s claim is well evidenced TBAT’s R&D tax claim specialists, ex-HMRC personnel, and ATT-qualified professionals, are poised to guide you through this evolving landscape.
If as an accountant you are seeking that technical assistance on a compliance check or to support a future R&D claim for your clients then TBAT Innovation is well placed to support you and your client.
When it comes to claiming R&D tax relief, many businesses in design-heavy industries often ask the same question: Can we claim for the cost of acquiring designs? While buying existing designs does not qualify for relief, the good news is that further work to modify, develop or improve those designs often does. If your business is undertaking technical design work as part of an innovation project, there may be significant relief available.
From 1 April 2026, all tax advisers, including those involved in R&D tax claims, must be registered with HMRC and meet new minimum standards to act on behalf of clients. This move is part of HMRC’s drive to raise professional standards, reduce fraud, and improve oversight within the tax advisory industry. Learn who will be affected by these changes and what at your business needs to do to stay compliant.
Assists organisations in accessing research and development grant funding across a range of UK and EU schemes and industry sectors.
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