Why a Technical-First Approach is the Best Option for Accountants Supporting R&D Tax Credit Claims

When it comes to R&D tax credits, precision matters. Accountants across the UK and Ireland are often the first line of support for businesses exploring this valuable incentive. But as the landscape becomes more scrutinised and complex, it’s clear that a technical-first approach is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity.

At Momentum Tax Group, we specialise in partnering with accountancy firms of all sizes to bring deep technical insight into R&D for tax purposes, helping them deliver more accurate, defensible, and valuable outcomes for their clients.

Why Accountants Choose Momentum Tax Group

Unlike many advisors who lead with the financials, Momentum focuses first on understanding what the company is actually doing — in the lab, on the shop floor or in the development cycle. We investigate operations, project activities, technologies, and methodologies to identify the real innovation at play. Only once the technical foundations are clear do we move forward to the financial aspects of the claim.

This partnered approach means accountants can trust that the technical justification is robust, enabling them to complete the financial side of the claim with clarity and confidence.

The Advantages of a Technical-First Approach

Here’s why leading with the technical gives your clients the best shot at a successful, compliant R&D tax claim:

Improved Accuracy

By starting with the technical details, we ensure that only genuinely qualifying activities and projects are included in the claim — reducing the risk of over- or under-claiming.

Stronger Eligibility Assessments

We dig deep into the client’s work being carried out, identifying the scientific or technological advancements being sought, the baseline knowledge or technology, and the uncertainties that must be overcome. This approach ensures that the activities meet the government definition of R&D.

Greater Credibility

The government R&D tax experts that review this, demand to see claims that are rooted in a detailed technical understanding — not just spreadsheets of costs. A robust, narrative-driven report enhances the credibility of the submission and demonstrates due diligence.

Compliance Confidence

With growing scrutiny on R&D claims, our technical-first approach aligns with expectations and guidance.

Full Identification of Qualifying Activity

We often discover qualifying work in places others overlook — from prototype development and failed experiments to behind-the-scenes problem solving. This means your clients get the correct eligible relief, not just the obvious headline figures.

Stronger Collaboration

We provide a full technical assessment and reporting package, which accountants can use to accurately calculate the financial side of the claim. It’s a true partnership — we focus on what we do best so you can focus on what you do best.

Why It Matters More Than Ever

Increased scrutiny and shifting guidelines have made it riskier for accountants and companies to rely on templated, AI generated or surface-level R&D assessments. Momentum’s approach is built to withstand that scrutiny — with detailed evidence, sector-specific insight, and a comprehensive understanding of compliance requirements.

Partner With Momentum Tax Group

If you’re an accountant looking to deliver the best outcomes for your clients — with peace of mind that their R&D tax claims are technically sound and financially accurate — it’s time to explore a partnership with Momentum Tax Group.

Let’s talk about how we can work together to deliver better results, with confidence.

If you'd like a no-obligation review or just a second opinion on your tax incentive claims, contact Momentum Tax Group on Head Office +44 (0) 28 9140 4030 / Dublin +353 (0)1 265 4090 or email tax@momentumtaxgroup.com