R&D Tax Credits
We are passionate in supporting UK innovators of all sizes to keep pushing the boundaries of technology. Government-backed R&D tax credits are a tried and tested way of funding that innovation.
R&D tax credits were introduced in the UK in 2000. The scheme was initially launched for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), and then later expanded to include larger companies.
Who can apply for R&D tax credits?
Relief is open to entities paying corporation tax in any sector. However, strict criteria must be met in order to qualify. R&D for tax purposes is defined by the Department for Science Innovation & Technology (DSIT) in statutory guidelines
The project
There must be a distinct R&D project in a field of science or technology. Relief can’t be claimed for the company’s routine, everyday work. An entire commercial project may be challenging, but perhaps only a small part of it qualifies as R&D for tax purposes.
The uncertainties
The project must involve scientific or technological uncertainties that can’t be readily resolved using existing technologies or knowledge, driving the company to explore novel solutions.
The advance
The project must seek to move the underlying technology, or scientific knowledge, forward. It won’t be enough that a job is challenging, or uses technology, on its own.
The costs
The costs claimed must directly or indirectly contribute to the resolution of the uncertainties. These include:
- Staff Costs
- Software
- R&D Consumables for prototypes
- Subcontractors
- Externally Provided Workers (EPWs)
- Clinical Trial Volunteer Costs
- Cloud computing and data licence costs
- Pure Mathematics (since April 2023)
Start your claim
We’re here to help you understand the guidelines, ensure your project qualifies and do the heavy lifting to prepare it. It starts with a conversation.
How is Ziliant different?
Our pedigree
The business that became Ziliant filed its first R&D tax credit claim in 2007. Since then, we have been building our experience and expertise.
Our 5-step methodology
Onboarding
We establish the basis for a claim
Identifying
We identify the R&D projects and relevant people
Qualifying
Our technical specialists gather the information necessary to qualify the projects and present a robust case
Calculating
Our tax professionals and technical writers crunch the numbers and information to calculate your benefit and craft your technical reports
Submitting
Once signed off, we provide your accountant with the relevant documents to submit your claim along with your tax return.
Our multidisciplinary team
We lead with hands-on expertise and experience. When you start a claim with us, you’ll be paired with both a tax advisor and one of our expert scientists, engineers and other sector specialists. They will guide you through the claim process, assessing what qualifies and crunching the numbers while our industry-leading technical writers will craft the narrative reports that must now accompany your claims. We believe it is the human touch that makes a difference.
Helping shape tax policy
Tireless bridge-builders, we have been part of the discussion since the beginning, forging relationships of influence over time with HMRC inspectors, First Tier Tribunal Judges, DSIT policymakers and influencers among our peers in the industry. This means not only that we are abreast of any changes, but we help shape them as well.
Other Services
Consulting & Enquiry Support
Whether you need ongoing innovation tax strategy or help navigating HMRC enquiries, Ziliant has your back. Our experienced consultants provide robust plans, and if HMRC launches a compliance action, we support you every step of the way—even if we didn’t submit the original claim.
Creative Industry Tax Reliefs
From film and TV to video games and exhibitions, Ziliant (in partnership with Creative Tax Reliefs Ltd) helps producers claim incentives across the UK’s vibrant creative sector. We bring industry-specific expertise, built on deep HMRC experience.
Patent Box
Reduce your corporation tax to 10% on profits made from patented products. We help you assess eligibility and navigate the complexities of claiming Patent Box relief.
Research & Development Allowances
Businesses can claim a 100% tax deduction for capital expenditure related to R&D, such as buildings, hardware, and equipment. We review your capital spend to ensure you’re maximising every opportunity.
Unlock Your Innovation Potential
Speak to our experts today and discover how much you could claim.