Navigating HMRC’s latest one-to-many campaign in R&D Tax Relief with WhisperClaims

Author: Jen Badger Published: 11^th June, 2025

Recently HMRC launched a new one-to-many (OTM) campaign targeting R&D tax relief claims particularly focusing on businesses that sell goods through the internet.

The aim of this and previous campaigns is to protect businesses from unscrupulous R&D advisers who misrepresent the tax relief schemes. The OTM campaigns involve sending letters pro-actively to companies in specific sectors, based on SIC code, informing them that their general business activities do not usually meet the eligibility criteria for R&D tax relief and pointing them to HMRC’s guidance.HMRC’s intention is to educate businesses and deter them from making erroneous claims as part of HMRC’s broader strategy to tackle non-compliance and fraud in R&D tax relief claims.

However this approach can be confusing and unsettling especially for businesses that have already claimed or are planning to.

What does this mean for accountants and advisers?

For accountants and advisers, these campaigns present both challenges and opportunities. Businesses who receive the letters need guidance to understand what action HMRC is asking of them and also to assess whether any of their projects do meet the criteria which requires a good understanding of the schemes.

Firms who can clearly communicate the rules, apply a consistent methodology, and demonstrate due diligence are well placed to step in with the right advice for their clients.

We understand why HMRC is taking a firmer stance to tackle abuse of the R&D tax relief scheme, but these campaigns can feel blunt in their execution, creating confusion and added pressure for businesses and advisers who are doing their best to comply.

How does WhisperClaims help?

It can be challenging for firms with clients who are affected by these types of campaigns, especially for a firm that is new to R&D tax, or for those who currently outsource this work.

That’s why, for over eight years, our software and support suite has been helping accountants and advisers across the UK confidently and compliantly manage R&D tax claims.

WhisperClaims provides the structure, support and oversight to prepare high-quality claims, even in a more cautious and complex environment. Here’s how:

A proven framework you can trust: Our software guides you through a structured question set, designed to uncover eligibility and build narratives that keep you on the right side of HMRC. You’ll avoid common pitfalls, while ensuring claims are thorough, consistent and justifiable.
Report and AIF output generation: Based on your inputs, WhisperClaims produces a complete technical report and Additional Information Form (AIF) output, formatted to meet HMRC’s expectations and reduce manual effort.
In-house expertise without the headcount: All of our subscription models include access to our Advice Line support – your direct link to experienced R&D tax professionals. Whether you need help with eligibility interpretation, or navigating new guidance, we’re here to help.
In-app risk mitigation features: Real-time flags and feedback highlight areas of concern as you build a claim, giving you a chance to strengthen narratives or spot non-qualifying activity before submission.

HMRC’s latest OTM campaign is another reminder of the increasing scrutiny surrounding R&D tax relief. But with the right processes, software and support, you can respond confidently and deliver even more value to your clients, without exposing them or your firm to unnecessary risk.

WhisperClaims is here to support you every step of the way. If you’re exploring how to launch or grow your in-house R&D tax service, we’d love to help. Why not book a demo?