In this guide
Which scheme applies
For accounting periods beginning on or after 1 April 2024, most companies use the merged R&D scheme. Loss-making, R&D-intensive SMEs may qualify for enhanced R&D intensive support.
Older accounting periods can fall under the previous SME or RDEC rules, so the accounting-period start date matters.
What counts as qualifying work
The project must seek an advance in science or technology and try to resolve a technological uncertainty that a competent professional could not readily resolve.
Describe the technical advance sought, the uncertainty the team faced and the work it carried out to resolve it. A product or feature alone does not establish that the project qualifies. Routine development, testing and commercial work usually fall outside the definition, so separate them from the qualifying activity.
Costs and records
Review staff costs, externally provided workers, subcontractors, software, data and consumables against the current rules. Keep project notes, timesheets, invoices, payroll records and evidence of the technical decision-making.
Before you claim
Check whether the company needs an advance notification, whether the claim deadline has passed and whether the figures reconcile to the accounts. HMRC can ask for a detailed explanation of the project and costs.
Official sources
Rates and deadlines can change. Use these links to check a rate, deadline or eligibility rule.
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