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R&D Claim Notification: Everything You Need to Know

April 23, 20253 min read

At ClearTax Group, we are dedicated to helping businesses navigate the complexities of tax regulations, including the recent changes to R&D tax relief claims. One of the key updates is the introduction of the R&D claim notification, which is now required for some companies. This measure has been implemented to prevent errors and fraud, ensuring that only legitimate claims are submitted.

In this article, we’ll explain who needs to notify HMRC, when to notify, and how ClearTax Group can assist you every step of the way.


What is R&D Claim Notification?

R&D claim notification is the process of informing HMRC that you intend to make a claim for R&D tax relief. It applies to companies claiming for the first time or those that haven’t made a claim in the last three years. This notification helps HMRC ensure that claims are genuine and is part of wider reforms aimed at preventing fraud.

Although the term ‘pre-notification’ is sometimes used, HMRC prefers the term ‘notification’ to clarify that this process should happen before submitting the claim, not before the R&D activities begin.


Do You Need to Notify HMRC?

For accounting periods starting on or after 1 April 2023, the following businesses must notify HMRC of their intention to claim R&D tax relief:

  • First-time claimants

  • Companies that haven't made a claim in the past three years

  • Businesses that made a claim within the last three years, but the claim doesn’t meet certain HMRC criteria


When to Notify HMRC

If your company needs to notify HMRC, you must do so within six months of the end of the accounting period you plan to claim for.

📅 Example: If your accounting period ends on 31 March 2024, the notification must be submitted by 30 September 2024.


How ClearTax Group Can Help

The R&D claim notification process can be detailed and time-sensitive. That’s where we come in. At ClearTax Group, we have extensive experience in managing R&D tax relief claims and can guide you through the notification process, ensuring you meet all deadlines and requirements.

If you're unsure whether you need to notify HMRC or have questions about your eligibility, our team is here to help. We’ll handle the complexities for you—from determining whether the three-year exemption applies to submitting the necessary details.


Next Steps

Once your claim notification has been submitted, you'll receive confirmation from HMRC. If you decide to proceed with your claim, ClearTax Group can assist you with the additional steps required to successfully submit your R&D claim on your Company Tax Return. If you choose not to continue, no further action is needed.

⚠️ However, failing to submit a notification when required will prevent you from claiming R&D tax relief for that period. Don’t let an oversight cost your business valuable tax savings—reach out to ClearTax Group and let us make the process as smooth as possible.


Contact Us

🔍 Need expert advice on your R&D tax relief claim?
Talk to the professionals at ClearTax Group today.

📞 0161 224 5456
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.cleartaxgroup.co.uk

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