R&D in Engineering

The engineering industry is no stranger to R&D – it’s practically the job! R&D in engineering is essential for the sector to advance, grow, and meet the ever-changing demands of the market. Within the capacity of engineering, numerous projects offer opportunities for engaging in R&D activities. The diverse array of projects encompasses a wide range of possibilities, each presenting its own set of challenges and uncertainties as well as avenues for innovation. Engineering involves sourcing solutions to technical problems with the application of scientific principles, mathematics, and empirical evidence.

Overview

Qualifying at a Glance

There is a huge amount of opportunities within research and development in engineering that span across different fields such as civil engineering, motorsport emerging, and even aerospace engineering. Qualifying R&D projects in engineering include:

Developing new products – Designing and creating innovative products, equipment, or machinery that offer improved functionality, efficiency, or safety compared to existing solutions.
Experimentation in automation and robotics – Developing and integrating advanced robotic systems or automation technologies to optimise manufacturing processes or enhance industrial operations.
Optimising processes – Researching and implementing new methods or technologies to streamline engineering processes, reduce costs, and enhance productivity.
Advancing in biomedical engineering – Innovating medical devices, prosthetics, or diagnostic equipment that improve healthcare outcomes and patient experiences.
Reducing the carbon footprint of engineering – Conducting R&D to design energy-efficient systems, components, or devices that promote sustainability and reduce environmental impact.
Creating software solutions – Engineering sophisticated software solutions, control systems, or firmware that improve the performance and functionality of engineering products and equipment.

You are in a strong position to qualify for R&D claims if you have:

Created something new

Designed a different process

Improved an existing product in an appreciable way

Ask Yourself

Did you conduct R&D activities to develop new products, processes, or services or to improve existing ones?
Did the R&D activities involve the resolution of technical uncertainties or challenges that could not be solved by using existing knowledge?
Did your products or services require extensive trial and testing throughout the creation process?

If you are answering yes, you may qualify to claim back up to 27% of eligible R&D expenditure through HMRC’s R&D Tax Relief Initiative. Contact one of our R&D tax credit specialists to seek further advice on how to proceed with your R&D claim.

Do I Qualify

The claim process

We understand the complications that can often arise when completing an R&D claim, not to mention the significant amount of time it can consume, diverting your attention from driving your innovation forward. That's why we have streamlined a transparent and hassle-free process that follows a step-by-step approach from start to finish.

Throughout your R&D claim process, we maintain open lines of communication tailored to your preferences. Once we have compiled comprehensive technical and financial reports, we take the responsibility of submitting them and proactively follow up with HMRC, leading the communication on your behalf. Often, our next contact with you brings the exhilarating news of success and positive outcomes.

Step 1

We'll gain your authorisation via our client instruction form/NDA. This will enable us to discuss your R&D activities along with your current tax position.

Step 2

We'll analyse the profit & loss (P&L) statement of the business while facilitating your technical call. This step aims to determine whether your case is feasible from both technical and financial perspectives.

Step 3

Once our experts are confident that your case meets the R&D eligibility criteria, we will then gather all the required technical information and financial documentation according to HMRC's standards to support your case.

Step 4

At this stage, we initiate a stringent compliance procedure that we have developed in-house to audit your R&D claim application. We verify whether it meets the defined standards before submitting it to HMRC to ensure a positive outcome.

Step 5

After conducting a comprehensive review of your R&D claim, including all required documentation, the application will be forwarded to HMRC for further processing.

Step 6

Our team maintains continuous contact with HMRC regarding your case. If any queries arise, we address them on your behalf using a highly systematic approach to maximise your outcome while minimising any delays in your repayment.