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We help innovators get the recognition their breakthroughs deserve by combining tax, science and technology expertise to deliver robust R&D claims through an efficient, client-first service.
HMRC’s R&D tax regimes have undergone a radical shake-up. The qualifying criteria is tighter. The scrutiny on claims is deeper.
Ensuring your R&D tax claims are accurate and fully compliant with the R&D legislation has never been more critical. Claimants need more than a surface level understanding of the rules – they need an R&D tax advisor who can navigate the complexity with confidence. Getting your claim right not only protects you from costly enquiries and delays, but also ensures you fully benefit from the relief you’re entitled to.
By pairing technical rigour with clear, practical guidance, we help innovators secure the rewards they deserve while staying firmly on the right side of the legislation and guidance.
Our 40-strong powerhouse team of tax brains, science geeks and tech wizards submit hundreds of R&D claims each year.
We sit at the intersection of tax, science and technology because that’s where the magic happens, pairing technically credible, no-nonsense advice with a slick, client-first service, to deliver robust R&D tax claims.
From Software Engineering and Artificial Intelligence to Chemistry and Motorsport Engineering, our team offers a rich array of expertise across diverse scientific and technological disciplines.
When you’re pushing boundaries, you need a partner who’s ahead of the game. So, tap into serious expertise, unbounded energy, and a track record that’s already supported hundreds of businesses just like yours.
Read how HMRC’s latest report affects R&D tax relief, with insights on claim trends, enhanced compliance expectations, and strategic updates for innovative companies.
We handle the entire R&D tax claim process end‑to‑end so you don’t have to – from running technical workshops with your team to completing the cost analysis and preparing the Additional Information Form (AIF) – ensuring your claim is robust, compliant, and ready to stand-up to HMRC scrutiny. Our specialists guide you through every step, translating complex tax rules into clear, practical advice – making the process as straightforward and stress‑free as possible.
This valuable tax incentive provides an additional deduction that can reduce the effective corporation tax rate to 10% on profits generated from patented products and processes. If patents haven’t been on your radar – or it’s been a while since you reviewed them – we’d be delighted to talk through the commercial advantages and tax efficiencies that come with protecting your intellectual property.
If you’re exploring grant funding, our specialist team can help you uncover the full range of funding opportunities available to support your growth. We can help you navigate the complex grant landscape, securing the best advice to find the right schemes designed to fuel your R&D and innovation.
Every R&D Tax Incentives team will tell you they’re the best in the biz. We prefer to let our clients do the talking.
For accounting periods beginning on or after 1 April 2024, HMRC has replaced the old SME and RDEC schemes with a single merged RDEC regime. There are a number of changes which we’ve outlined here in our article.
The new RDEC rate is:
Finally, the Enhanced R&D Intensive Support (ERIS) scheme exists alongside the new merged RDEC scheme and offers better rates for loss‑making, R&D‑intensive SMEs who spend 30% or more of their total company expenditure on R&D.
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R&D must aim to overcome scientific or technological uncertainties and deliver a genuine advance in scientific or technological knowledge or capability – going beyond routine or day‑to‑day work. These activities span a wide range of industries and environments, not just laboratories or pharma settings.
Eligible costs typically include:
Yes. Success isn’t required. If the project tried to advance science or technology and overcome scientific or technological uncertainty, it can qualify – even if the goals of the project weren’t achieved.
Usually two accounting periods (two years) retrospectively, although make sure HMRC’s notification requirements have been met (required within 6 months of the end of the accounting period in question).
Claims can result in:
Responsive, advice which is on the front foot, thinking further down the line than just today’s advice which adds value and opportunity to work further together to make sure arrangements are correctly completed.
I find the tax service difficult, I value having a relationship wher eI can pick up the phone and have someone who understands the business – I’ve not had that at Cooper Parry. Fee quotes and work scopes are disproportionate for the stage of business that we are. Audit was fairly hands off this year; we completed in a tight frame which we appreciated but I’m not sure we got the hands on value add partnership that we’ve had more of in prior years. No mention of FRS102 changes for example which would have been one example of value add from CP in terms of our internal planning.
The team are always responsive to queries and also helpful to introduce me to the right person at CP if they can’t help. Whoever I liaise with are knowledgeable, easy to work with and understand the business needs.
Glen and the audit team are always well prepared and now having worked together for 3+ years they whole process has become very good in light of the fact we all know how each party works and can make the necessary allowances for timings and personnel availability
Generally very pro-active. Make us aware of any issues that may affect the year end in advance. Also helping re capital allowances in advance of the current year. All of the team are approachable whilst maintaining a strong professional ethic.
Good communication with audit team. Clear audit plan at start of process. Good interaction with audit team during the audit. Frequent check ins. Timelines for audit and reporting have always been met.
We use CP predominantly for our annual audit and the process always feels “painless”.
Consistent team on the audit each year makes it easier year on year. Prompt response to queries even when not on site. Easy to use portal for uploading documents.
Attention to detail and a personalised service
Good professional advice always available
