The Power of No: Driving compliance and confidence in R&D tax claims

Author: Suz Harkness Published: 10^th January, 2025

When it comes to R&D tax claims, advisers and accountants face an increasingly complex and challenging landscape.

With HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) tightening scrutiny, a growing number of schemes to navigate, and the ever-present risk of enquiry, the stakes have never been higher.

For many, the pressure to deliver a claim can feel overwhelming, but what if saying no is sometimes the best decision you can make?

We firmly believe in the power of no. While it might seem counterintuitive, a well-informed “no” can save time, resources, and reputations.

It is about empowering you to make confident decisions based on compliance and clarity.

The risks of “Yes”

Submitting an R&D tax claim without full confidence in its eligibility can lead to significant risks:

Increased likelihood of HMRC enquiries: A claim that does not meet HMRC’s stringent criteria may trigger an investigation, costing time, money, and resources.
Damage to credibility: A failed or rejected claim can harm client trust and damage your reputation.
Potential penalties: Claims found to be ineligible will result in repayments and possibly penalties, adding further strain.

The urge to say yes to a borderline claim is understandable — but it is not worth the potential fallout. A well-informed no at the right stage in the process can help you to avoid these pitfalls and focus on delivering robust, compliant claims.

The “Power of No” in action

This is where WhisperClaims comes in.

Our software is designed to help you make confident decisions at every stage of the R&D tax claim process. Here’s how we help:

Dynamic feedback and risk assessments: Our platform evaluates the information entered, highlighting potential risks.
Tailored questioning: WhisperClaims only asks the questions relevant to the specific accounting period, keeping you efficient.
A structured decision-making framework: You can assess eligibility clearly and objectively, giving you the confidence to say no when necessary.
Compliance-first reporting: Our Additional Information Form (AIF) and R&D tax report downloads ensure you are covering all the information HMRC requires for a complaint and robust claim, reducing the risk of enquiry or rejection.

Saying no to ineligible claims early on is hugely beneficial to you and your clients.

A word on technology: Why AI cannot replace expertise

AI continues to revolutionise the world as we know it and R&D tax is no exception.

With the promise of increased accuracy and efficiency, AI offers exciting opportunities to support you and your advisory service.

Here at WhisperClaims, we are actively exploring how AI can enhance our customers’ experiences, enabling them to work smarter and with greater confidence.

With compliance, data security and the increased risk of an enquiry from HMRC at the forefront of everyone’s mind, it is important to recognise the need for balance.

Technology must support — not replace — human expertise in an area as nuanced as R&D tax. Misinterpretations or oversights by AI, particularly in the hands of less experienced users, could lead to unintended risks and potentially negative outcomes.

The technology must be used as an enabler of best practices, giving all advisers the confidence to navigate challenges, while always prioritising quality and compliance.

Watch this space!

Why saying NO builds trust

Saying no to an ineligible claim might seem like a disappointment to your client in the short term, but it’s a win in the long run.

By demonstrating transparency, honesty, and a commitment to compliance, you build stronger, more trusting relationships with your clients.

A clear no, backed by a structured process, also establishes credibility, showing clients that you prioritise their best interests over a quick win.

Join our webinar: The Power of No

To help advisers through these challenges and gain confidence in their decision-making, we’re hosting a webinar, The Power of No on 16 January 2025 at 12pm.

Here is what you will learn:

How to use WhisperClaims to assess eligibility confidently and efficiently.
The risks of submitting ineligible claims and how to avoid them.
Why saying no can build stronger relationships with your clients.
How WhisperClaims supports compliance with features like dynamic feedback, risk assessments, and AIF outputs.

Whether you’re a seasoned R&D tax adviser or new to the field, join us to hear us discuss Power of No and how it can lead to better outcomes and stronger client relationships in 2025 and beyond.

If you’re ready to see how WhisperClaims can help your practice now, book a demo or start your free trial today.

Book a Demo