Understanding the R&D Claim Notification Form for UK Businesses

As of April 2023, HMRC introduced a new requirement for R&D tax relief claims – the R&D Claim Notification form. This form is essential for businesses wishing to claim R&D tax relief under either the Research and Development Expenditure Credit (RDEC) or the SME R&D Tax Relief schemes.

Here at Reclaim Tax UK, we ensure our clients remain compliant with these new regulations while maximising their R&D claims. If you're planning to make an R&D tax relief claim, it’s crucial to understand when and how to submit this form.

Not every business is required to submit the form, but if your company meets the following criteria, you will need to notify HMRC of your intent to claim:

1. First-time Claimants: If this is your company’s first R&D claim.
2. Non-Claimants in the Last 3 Years: If your company has not made an R&D claim in the previous three years.

The form must be submitted within six months from the end of the relevant accounting period for which you are making the claim. Failing to notify HMRC within this period means you will not be able to submit a claim for that period.

The R&D Claim Notification form requires businesses to provide specific information about their R&D activities. To ensure your notification is processed smoothly, you will need to include:

1. Company details, including your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR)
2. The relevant accounting period for the claim
3. Contact details of the individual responsible for the R&D claim
4. A high-level description of your R&D activities
5. A rough estimate of qualifying expenditure

At Reclaim Tax UK, we guide you through gathering and presenting this information effectively. We ensure that your form is accurate, minimising delays or potential disputes with HMRC.

One of the most critical aspects of the R&D Claim Notification form is the deadline. As mentioned, the form must be submitted no later than six months after the end of your company’s accounting period. Missing this deadline means your R&D tax relief claim for that period will be invalid, potentially costing your business a significant amount in lost tax relief.

Our team at Reclaim Tax UK works diligently to ensure that all forms are submitted on time and with the necessary details. By working with us, you can focus on driving innovation within your business, while we handle the compliance and administrative work.

Navigating the complexities of R&D tax relief can be daunting, especially with the introduction of the Claim Notification form. With years of experience helping UK businesses maximise their R&D claims, Reclaim Tax UK is well-positioned to support your company through every stage of the process. From determining eligibility to preparing and submitting your claim, we offer a comprehensive service that ensures you don’t miss out on valuable tax relief.

If your business is looking to claim R&D tax relief or if you’re unsure whether the new notification requirements apply to you, Reclaim Tax UK is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your R&D claim and ensure you're fully compliant with the latest HMRC guidelines.