6 Common Misconceptions About R&D Tax Credits

Myth: The R&D Tax Credit is Only For Businesses with a Large Amount of Revenue

Many people falsely believe the R&D tax credit is only for businesses with a large amount of revenue. However, businesses with a revenue of less than $5 million in the current year are able to claim the credit. 

Myth: Start-Ups Can’t Claim the R&D Tax Credit 

Start-ups and small businesses can claim the R&D tax credit. If your business has 5 years or less in revenue, you are eligible for the credit (as long as you meet the additional qualifying criteria, which include having $5 million or less in revenue in the current year and conducting qualifying research activities). 

Myth: The Business Must Conduct Scientific Research to Claim the Tax Credit

A business does not have to conduct scientific research in order to claim the R&D tax credit. There are a large number of activities that qualify, including (but not limited to) automating or improving internal manufacturing processes, designing tools or fixtures, integrating new equipment, developing financial pricing models, developing data centers, integrating APIs and similar technologies, and many more. 

Myth: A New Product Must Be Created To Count as a Qualified Research Activity

This is false. You do not need to create a new product in order for the activity to qualify for the R&D tax credit – improving an existing product, process, or formula can count as a qualified research activity. 

Myth: Only Businesses in a Research Industry Can Claim the Credit

The R&D tax credit applies to any industry, as long as the business conducts qualified research activities

Myth: The R&D Tax Credit Can Only Be Claimed For the Previous Tax Year

One of the most significant benefits of the R&D tax credit is it can be claimed for tax years that go back 3 to 4 years.

How Source Advisors Can Help

At Source Advisors, we can help assess your business’ federal R&D tax credit opportunity and determine any state R&D tax credit availability. In fact, many states offer R&D tax credits, with many being more lucrative than the federal credit. Our team of experienced CPAs, attorneys, engineers, and technology experts helps businesses save money, create cash flow, and potentially reduce income taxes with R&D tax credits that can then help drive overall growth.