How the R&D tax credit process works
Four steps from the first screening to a filed, audit-ready claim.
1
Free screening
A 5–10 minute screening based on the IRS four-part test. We review your answers against IRC Section 41 and estimate whether a credit is likely.
2
Discovery interview
A guided conversation and a questionnaire built for your business document each qualifying project.
3
Calculation
We calculate the credit and prepare Form 6765, project narratives and employee time allocations.
4
CPA hand-off
We work with your CPA or tax preparer and hand over an audit-ready package. If the IRS asks questions, we respond.
Not sure your work qualifies?
See how the IRS defines qualified research
What is included
What you receive with every study
A complete file your CPA can use to claim the credit and defend it later.
Credit calculation workbook
Every wage, supply and contractor cost tied to a qualifying project, with the math shown.
Form 6765 support
The figures and backup your CPA needs to complete the credit form with the return.
Project technical narratives
Each project described in plain language against the four-part test.
Employee wage and time allocations
How much of each person’s time went to qualifying work, and how we arrived at it.
Contractor and supply analysis
Outside contractor and supply costs reviewed for what counts toward the credit.
Audit-ready file
Everything organized in one place, so your CPA can respond if the IRS asks.
Credits we cover
The credits we help you claim
One screening shows which of these your business may be able to use.
Federal R&D tax credit
Claimed with Form 6765 on your return. We help you work out whether the regular or the simplified method fits your numbers.
How qualification works
Florida businesses
How the federal credit works for Florida businesses and their owners, plus a note on Florida’s narrow state credit.
See the Florida guide
Payroll tax offset
Some qualified small businesses and startups can apply part of the federal credit against payroll taxes. Eligibility depends on gross receipts and company age.
Check your eligibility
How we work together
Working with your CPA
We do the technical documentation. Your CPA stays in charge of your return.
We handle
Screening your projects
Interviewing your engineers and managers
Documenting projects and expenses
Calculating the credit
Preparing Form 6765 support
Supporting you if the IRS asks questions
Your CPA handles
Filing your tax return
Tax planning and strategy
Reviewing and signing the credit forms
Deciding how the credit fits your overall tax position
FAQ
R&D tax credit study questions
What a study involves, what we need from you and how we work with your CPA.
