Tax Relief For SMEs: Different Types And What It Takes To Qualify

Understanding tax relief options is pivotal for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) aiming to flourish in an ever-competitive business landscape. British SMEs, often considered the backbone of the economy, should be well-informed about the different kinds of tax reliefs available and the criteria for eligibility.

Research and Development Tax Relief

Research and Development (R&D) Tax Relief is aimed at companies involved in pioneering projects that advance science or technology. Qualifying endeavours should seek to resolve a particular technological or scientific uncertainty, which could range from developing a new product to enhancing existing processes. The relief can either reduce your corporation tax bill or result in a cash payment from the HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

The R&D credits are not a one-size-fits-all scheme but vary according to the company’s size and expenditure. SMEs can expect to deduct up to 186% of qualifying R&D expenditure when calculating profit for tax purposes. Larger companies might be eligible for the Research and Development Expenditure Credit (RDEC) at a lower rate.

Employment Allowance

Employment Allowance offers relief of up to £4,000 a year on National Insurance contributions for eligible employers. This is particularly beneficial for SMEs with a moderate workforce, as it reduces the cost of employment. To qualify, businesses should have had employer Class 1 National Insurance liabilities of under £100,000 in the preceding tax year.

The claim process for Employment Allowance is straightforward, usually managed through the employer’s payroll software or HMRC’s Basic PAYE Tools. While the relief amount is not enormous, it certainly assists in offsetting employment costs, which can make a tangible difference for SMEs operating on a tight budget.

Patent Box Regime

The Patent Box scheme allows companies to pay a lower rate of Corporation Tax on profits earned from patented inventions. To be eligible, a company must own or exclusively license-in the patents and have undertaken qualifying development on them. The relief extends to specific income streams, such as royalties, sales of patented products, and damages from patent infringements.

While the Patent Box scheme can be highly advantageous, claiming it is a complex process that involves calculating the ‘Patent Box profit’ separately from other types of income. The reduced rate is 10%, compared to the standard rate of Corporation Tax, making it a significant incentive for companies to innovate and protect their intellectual property.

Summing Up

Navigating the maze of tax reliefs can be a daunting task, but the rewards are often well worth the effort. By understanding the different types of tax reliefs available and their respective eligibility criteria, SMEs can not only reduce their tax burden but also strategically reinvest the saved funds for growth and development. For best results, seeking professional advice is recommended, as it ensures compliance with the ever-evolving tax regulations and maximises the available benefits.