February 2026

Get Ready for R&D Early.

Thinking about making an R&D tax credit claim? Preparation makes all the difference.

Too many businesses leave R&D claims until year end and then scramble to piece everything together. That’s when things get missed, or worse, submitted without enough technical backing.

Getting ready early isn’t complicated, but it does need structure. Here’s what helps:

• Identify projects early – Any work involving technical uncertainty, new processes, or problem-solving could qualify.
• Document challenges as they happen – What didn’t work is often just as important as what did.
• Track time and costs clearly – Staff time, subcontractors, software and consumables all matter.
• Involve the technical team – Strong claims are built on real technical narratives, not just numbers.
• Keep evidence organised – Emails, project notes, testing results — it all supports the story.

HMRC expectations have increased. Claims need to be clear, robust and properly evidenced.

At RfM Transform, we work with businesses throughout the year to prepare claims properly, not reactively. The goal isn’t just to submit a claim. It’s to submit one that stands up.

If you’re planning to claim this year, now is the time to get organised. Email Tony @ tbackhouse@rfm-more.co.uk