In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of enquiries being conducted by HMRC into Research and Development (R&D) claims.

This surge in investigations is primarily a response to instances of fraudulent claims and incorrect submissions made by businesses.

However, it is important to note that not all enquiries are indicative of wrongdoing.

In many cases, HMRC conducts routine checks to ensure the integrity of R&D claims and verify their compliance with the established guidelines.

While the thought of an enquiry into your R&D claim may initially cause concern, it is crucial to remain calm and approach the situation with a proactive mindset.

Enquiries into R&D claims are a standard part of the process and should not be automatically associated with suspicion or accusations.

Instead, they serve as an opportunity for both businesses and HMRC to ensure the accuracy and legitimacy of R&D claims, ultimately maintaining the integrity of the system.

By following the right steps and adopting a transparent and cooperative approach, you can effectively deal with an enquiry into your R&D claim.

This article provides valuable tips and guidance to assist you in navigating through the process, ensuring a smooth and satisfactory resolution.

Top tips

When facing an enquiry into your R&D claim, seeking assistance from an experienced accountancy firm like Williamson & Croft can significantly alleviate the burden and complexity of the process.

Here’s a closer look at how our expertise can help you navigate the enquiry efficiently:

Initial consultation

During this consultation, our experts will take the time to understand the specifics of your R&D claim and the scope of the enquiry.

This comprehensive assessment allows us to tailor our approach and provide guidance that is specifically suited to your situation.

Comprehensive review

We will conduct a thorough review of your original R&D claim and supporting documentation, and meticulously examine all the details, ensuring that the claim accurately reflects the eligible R&D activities and associated expenses.

Through this process, we will identify any potential areas of concern and prepare you to address them effectively.

Preparation of responses

One of the key services we provide is assisting you in preparing comprehensive and accurate responses to the enquiry.

Our expertise enables us to present a robust case, aligning your responses with HMRC guidelines and regulations.

We will work closely with your team to gather the necessary information, validate the claims, and ensure all the relevant documentation is organised and readily available.

Communication and liaison

Acting as your representative, we will maintain open and effective communication channels with the investigating authorities throughout the enquiry process.

We will promptly respond to any additional queries or requests from HMRC, ensuring a smooth flow of information and reducing the chances of any misunderstandings or miscommunications.

Compliance and resolution

Our primary goal is to ensure compliance with HMRC guidelines while working towards a satisfactory resolution of the enquiry.

We will navigate any potential challenges that arise during the process, providing expert advice and support every step of the way.

Our in-depth knowledge of R&D tax regulations and experience in dealing with enquiries equip us with the necessary skills to address any issues effectively.

In addition to these core services, we can also provide ongoing support and guidance to help you optimise your R&D claims and minimise the chances of future enquiries.

We can offer proactive advice on documentation management, R&D claim process improvement, and compliance with evolving regulations, ultimately assisting you in maximising the benefits of your R&D activities.

Summary

When facing an enquiry into your R&D claim, the assistance of an accountancy firm specialising in R&D claims is invaluable.

Williamson & Croft’s expertise, thorough review processes, and effective communication with HMRC can significantly ease the burden and ensure a smooth resolution.

By working closely with our professionals, you can confidently address the enquiry, provide accurate responses, and safeguard the integrity of your R&D claim.

Contact us today for further information.