What to Look for in an R&D Tax Credit Specialist

Three kinds of R&D tax adviser

UK companies claiming R&D tax relief usually choose between three options: their general accountant, a high volume claims firm, or a technical specialist. Each can file a claim, but they differ sharply in how defensible the claim is and how much of the relief you keep.

General accountants know your numbers but rarely have the scientific or engineering depth to describe technological uncertainty in the way HMRC expects. High volume firms are set up for throughput, which can mean template narratives and aggressive cost inclusion. Technical specialists sit between the two, pairing qualified technical writers with tax know how.

1. Who actually writes the technical report

Ask who will interview your team and write the project narratives. The strongest answer is a scientist or engineer with experience in your field, not a salesperson or junior administrator working from a questionnaire.

HMRC compliance activity focuses heavily on the technical case. A report that explains the baseline, the uncertainty and how it was resolved is the best protection your claim has.

2. How the fee works

Most specialists charge a success fee, a percentage of the benefit you receive. Compare the percentage, but also check for minimum fees, multi year lock in contracts and charges for enquiry support.

At GrantUp the fee is success based, typically 10%, with no lock in and enquiry defence included on claims we prepare. Our R&D tax credits hub sets out how it works.

3. How they work with your accountant

Your accountant files the CT600, so the adviser should hand over clean figures and a summary that slot straight into the return. Avoid anyone who insists you change accountant or duplicates their work.

4. Enquiry defence and compliance

Ask what happens if HMRC opens an enquiry: who responds, whether it is included in the fee, and how claims are checked before submission. A specialist should also handle claim notification and the additional information form.

Our claim notification and AIF guide explains the compliance steps every claim now needs.

5. Whether they take small and first claims

Many firms set minimum claim sizes that shut out startups. If you are early stage, look for an adviser who will prepare a first claim properly and help you set up records that make later claims easier.

6. Whether they see the wider funding picture

Grant funding changes how R&D costs are claimed, and the right grant can lift the value of a claim. An adviser who also wins innovation grants can plan both together instead of reconciling them after the event.

Where to go next

Try the R&D tax calculator for a quick estimate, then book a call and we will tell you plainly whether a claim is worth making.