How long does an R&D tax credit enquiry take?

The time required to resolve an enquiry can range from a few weeks to several months. This depends on the complexity of the issues involved. Examples include:

• Complexities with the scientific or technological uncertainty
  Enquiries involving detailed technical uncertainty or multiple qualifying activities take longer to review, particularly where the baseline knowledge is not clearly established.
• Comprehensiveness of the claim submission
  Missing information, unclear narratives or insufficient alignment between the activities undertaken and eligible expenditure spent can lead to follow-up questions and delays.
• Availability of supporting evidence
  HMRC may request contemporaneous records such as project documentation, timelines, or cost breakdowns. Delays often arise where this evidence is not supported with further technical evidence.
• Internal HMRC review processes
  Some R&D tax relief claims are subject to specialist review by HMRC compliance teams, especially where risk indicators are present.
• Responsiveness to HMRC queries
  Timeframes are extended where there are delays in replying to information requests or providing clarity on the evidence which supports the R&D claim.
• Number of projects or claim size
  Larger or multi-project R&D tax credit claims typically require more detailed scrutiny, which increases review time.
• Involvement of external agents or advisers
  Communication through external agents or advisers can add time on the claim process, particularly if multiple revisions or clarifications are needed.

At Alexander Clifford, we prepare R&D tax credit relief claims with clear, accurate information that reflects the underlying qualifying activity and eligible expenditure.

With over 100+ 5-star reviews and returning clients year after year, this reflects a consistent approach to R&D claim preparation and documentation.

In the scenario that HMRC opens an enquiry, our expert team supports the process through structured communication, technical clarification and supporting evidence where required. This helps ensure the enquiry is handled clearly and aligns with HMRC compliance.