I supported a sizeable software R&D claim enquiry last year, collaborating with the client and the firm that had originally filed the claim. It was one of those cases that felt impossible because of HMRC’s poor behaviour, but the client deserved better. It was the ‘right’ thing to do not to back down.
We took it all the way to a Tribunal listing ultimately, which to be honest felt a little scary at times.
It seems only at this point did HMRC wake up and smell the coffee. They wrote to accept two years’ claims in full as filed, close the enquiries and apologised for the difficulties caused by the enquiry. Our formal complaint was also upheld.
This was the client’s response at hearing the news:
“The best part of this letter for me is the confirmation that we were not crazy or delusional in thinking that what we do is an innovation. It’s easy to doubt yourself after spending 2 years being challenged.
Thank you for your support. I don’t think I would have gone this far without your confidence and sound advice. I am truly grateful for believing our story when HMRC kept rejecting our requests.”
And that is why I love my work! #makeadifference #dotherightthing #SMEs
