What Should I Expect From HMRC?

What are HMRC’s processing times for a R&D claim?

Have All Your Questions Answered

Speak to an expert today.

Once you’ve submitted your R&D claim, the next step is waiting for HMRC to review it and issue your tax credits. Processing times can vary, with most claims handled within weeks, though complex cases may take longer. Learn what influences HMRC’s timelines and how to avoid common delays in receiving your benefit.

HMRC processing times for SMEs

For SMEs, HMRC typically processes claims within 28 days of submission, but it can take up to 40 days overall. This accounts for the time it takes for the funds to reach your bank after approval. That said, due to increased compliance checkes in recent years, HMRC has struggled to meet its 40 day target consistently, and some claim may take longer.

HMRC processing times for large companies

For large companies, the process can be more complex, especially if the R&D tax credit claim is tied to a larger Corporation tax return or involves other specialist areas like transfer pricing. These claims often take longer due to the additional complexity and manual intervention required.

Additional factors influencing processing times

Beyond the complexity of the claim itself, there are other factors that can impact how quickly your claim is processed, including:

Peak periods: Expect longer processing times during busy periods, such as the end of the financial year (March, September, December), due to the high volume of claims.
Compliance checks: With increased scrutiny around R&D claims, HMRC may take extra time to investigate claims and confirm their validity, which could delay payments.

What if HMRC identifies an error in the claim?

If HMRC identifies an error in your claim, they may open an enquiry, which could delay processing and potentially lead to a penalty. To avoid errors, it’s vital to provide detailed and accurate information from the outset.

It’s easy to underestimate how much hinges on how an R&D claim is presented. We were locked in an enquiry with HMRC for over 12 months, and getting frustrated by the lack of movement. Ayming didn’t just advise – they defended us. They knew the key areas of focus, they understood HMRC’s process intimately, and they navigated the enquiry with total confidence. That level of expertise is what made the difference.

CFO, Fenestra

Choosing Ayming as your partner

Delays in HMRC processing can be frustrating, especially when cashflow is critical. Our experts streamline your R&D claim to reduce the risk of queries, ensure compliance, and optimise your return value. With deep knowledge of HMRC’s review process, we help you prepare robust claims that stand up to scrutiny so you can access your tax credits faster and focus on driving innovation.

Expertise

How we can help you

To unlock the full value of your R&D spend, speak to our tax and innovation experts today.

HMRC enquiry defence

Rely on expert support to navigate your HMRC enquiry, protect your claim, and ensure compliance.

Learn more

R&D tax credits

Recover valuable cash by claiming tax relief on eligible innovation and development activities.