HMRC has introduced two new measures to tackle the rise in fraudulent research and development (R&D) claims.

Claim notification form.

For accounting periods beginning on or after 1 April 2023, a digital pre-notification form is required to inform HMRC in advance of R&D claims.

This will be mandatory for all those intending to claim R&D tax reliefs if:

• they are claiming for the first time; or

• their last claim was made more than 3 years before the last date of the claim notification period.

The claim notification window starts on the first day of the accounting period and ends six months after the end of the accounting period.

To complete the claim notification form you will need:

• the company’s Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR).

• the main senior internal R&D contact responsible for the R&D claim.

• the contact details of any agent involved in the R&D claim.

• the accounting period start and end date for which you are claiming.

• a summary of the high-level planned activities.

Additional information form.

From 8 August 2023 all R&D claims must be accompanied by an additional information form (AIF). This must be submitted online, or in some cases via email, before the company tax return (CT600) is filed. If a CT600 includes a claim for R&D relief and no AIF has been submitted, HMRC will automatically remove the R&D claim from the return.

The information required on the AIF is extensive, including details for each R&D project; what baseline level of science or technology the project plans to advance; and whether you intend to claim R&D relief, expenditure credits or both. Full details of the information required can be found within the guidance on GOV.UK.

If either of these forms is not submitted on time, or is incorrect, HMRC may reject the claim for R&D relief. If you are planning on carrying out any R&D, we can help you comply with these new requirements.