Is your R&D agent safe-guarding you against HMRC enquiries?

When looking for an agent to help you claim R&D tax relief from, it's important to be cautious and avoid certain pitfalls. Here are some things to consider:

1. Lack of expertise: Avoid agents who lack expertise or experience in handling R&D tax relief claims, such as generalists who say they can prepare claims for multiple unrelated things. 
   We are 100% focused on R&D tax relief and have a proven track record of successful claims.
2. Lack of knowledge about your industry: Ensure that the agent understands your industry and the specific R&D activities relevant to your business. 
   Our Technical team are experts in their relevant fields, with many coming from actual innovation and R&D teams. This means they have the necessary technical knowledge to identify eligible projects and expenditures, and uncover aspects of a project that may be overlooked by others.
3. Upfront fees or percentage-based charges: Be wary of agents who request upfront fees or charge fees that are payable regardless of the outcome of a claim. 
   As a reputable agent, we do not charge any upfront fees. There are no hidden administration fees. We only receive payment if the claim is successful, and in the event HMRC open an enquiry we will support you at no additional cost.
4. Promises of guaranteed results: Avoid agents who make unrealistic promises or guarantees of securing R&D tax relief. The outcome of a claim depends on various factors, including the eligibility of the R&D activities and adherence to HMRC guidelines.
   Our Business Support team is fully-accredited and undergo continuous training to ensure they well-versed in the ever-changing guidelines and requirements for claiming R&D tax relief set by HMRC. This is one of the many aspects of our claim process which ensures that all clients are safe-guarded in the event of an enquiry.
5. Lack of transparency: Ensure that the agent is transparent about their processes, timelines, and the information they require from you.
   It’s in our name – Easy R&D! Our mission is to make the entire process clear and simple for you. We do all of the leg-work in order for your business to get the optimum reward from HMRC. Our Account Directors and Customer Success teams keep clients informed throughout the claim process, providing updates along the way and ensuring from day 1 that you understand what is required each step of the way. 
6. Insufficient documentation: Avoid agents who do not emphasise the importance of maintaining accurate and detailed documentation. Adequate records of R&D projects, expenditures, and supporting evidence are crucial for a successful claim.
   All claims submitted by Easy R&D are supported by a technical narrative which shows how the business has met HMRC requirements for eligibility. We can also help with setting up contemporaneous record-keeping for your R&D process, and our Tax Clinics (which we offer at no additional cost to existing clients) can advise others way to improve your business’ documentation and tax strategy. 
7. Lack of references or reviews: Before engaging an agent, ask for references or look for reviews from their previous clients. This can provide insights into their reputation, professionalism, and success rate.
   Our website openly promotes our case studies and testimonials, which are all from REAL clients. If you would like an example, specific to your industry or setup please ask.
8. High-pressure tactics: Be cautious of agents who use high-pressure tactics to push you into making a decision. Take your time to evaluate different options and choose an agent that aligns with your needs and goals.
   As we do not charge upfront fees. So, even after you sign an agreement with Easy R&D there is no time-pressure from our teams for you to complete a claim. We will work with your current ways-of-working, whether you need a quick turnaround or extra time to gather the required information, we can adjust our process to fit your needs. The only time-pressure will be from HMRC who insist a strict 2-year time limit from closing that accounting period to making a claim. 

Remember, it's essential to conduct thorough research, compare multiple agents, and trust your instincts when selecting an agent to assist you with your R&D tax relief claim. For a no-obligation chat with our of our experienced team on the potential benefits of making an R&D tax credit claim, get in touch now.