Professional body calls on HMRC to tackle ‘rogue’ R&D tax relief claims

The Association of Taxation Technicians is concerned about the minority of rogue advisers who seek to maximise claims inappropriately especially when their fee is calculated as a percentage of that claim.

The ATT was responding to the Treasury’s spring consultation on R&D tax relief. It believes fraudulent claims are not just a risk for the exchequer. If some companies receive more tax relief than they are entitled to those who play by the rules may feel that there is not a level playing field.

Association president Jeremy Coker said: ‘The government has an ambitious target to raise total investment in research and development to 2.4% of UK GDP by 2027 but before that is achieved it is important it ensures that the reliefs are up to date competitive and well targeted.’

He suggested a ‘more robust sign off for...