Businesses have the opportunity to reduce their tax liabilities by determining their qualified research expenses (QREs) and claiming them as a deduction through the federal research and development (R&D) tax credit program. Companies that want to take advantage of this dollar-for-dollar reduction absolutely need to have a solid understanding of what kinds of expenses count as research and development spending. In this piece, we will discuss the idea of “qualified research expenses” and delve into the criteria established by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to determine which costs are tax-deductible.

Related Link: The Best Free Balance Sheet Template

Table of Contents

What are Qualified Research Expenses (QREs)?

The specific costs incurred during the development or improvement of products, processes, techniques, formulas, inventions, or software that meet the requirements of the IRS are qualified research expenses. These costs can be deducted from your taxable income. Wages paid to employees, costs associated with contract research, and supply costs are all examples of QREs. Businesses have the potential to benefit from the R&D tax credit if they can properly identify and document the costs associated with their research and development efforts.

Looking for a more efficient way to automate your R&D tax credit? Contact us today.

Defining Qualified Research

Research and development activities must pass a four-part test established by the IRS in order to be eligible for the R&D tax credit.

Related to Development or Improvement: The research must be centered on improving the functionality, quality, reliability, or performance of a business component, such as a product, process, software, technique, formula, or invention.
Technological in Nature: The development needs to involve technological concepts, principles, or applications in order to be considered technological in nature.
Technological Uncertainty: There must be uncertainty regarding the capability or method of developing the business component or its appropriate design in order for there to be technological uncertainty.
Experimental in Nature: The process of development must involve a methodical approach to evaluate and resolve technological uncertainties in a manner that is consistent with established scientific methods. This approach must be experimental in nature.

Expenses Eligible for the R&D Credit

There are some expenditures that might be eligible for the R&D tax credit, while others might not satisfy the requirements. Let’s take a look at some of the categories of costs that might qualify:

Wages of Employees Engaged in Qualified R&D Activities

If employee wages are associated with qualified research activities performed within the United States, then they may be eligible for consideration for the R&D tax credit. In this context, “conducting” or “executing” the research, “supervising” the research, and “providing direct support to the research” are all included as activities. It is essential to keep in mind, however, that the only time that can be claimed for reimbursement is the time that can be directly attributed to these activities.

The following are examples of required documentation for qualified R&D employee wages:

W-2 forms completed by employees
Registers for tracking payroll
Time tracking data
Time questionnaires
Oral testimony
Meeting minutes

Qualified Research and Development Supply Expenses

To the extent that they were not capitalized or depreciated, tangible properties that were directly used in research activities may be eligible as qualified supply expenses. Raw materials, for instance, that are used in the process of fabricating and testing prototypes might qualify. However, things like the research facility itself, equipment that is subject to depreciation, and general office supplies do not typically qualify as meeting the requirements.

Qualified Contract Research Expenses

In some instances, businesses may decide to employ the services of third-party contractors in order to carry out research activities on their behalf. When determining eligibility for the R&D tax credit, these qualified contract research expenses can be taken into consideration. To be eligible, businesses need to bear the financial risk associated with the development of the contractor while also retaining substantial rights to the research that is conducted by the contractor.

Exclusions and General Administrative Costs

It is essential to keep in mind that the R&D tax credit does not normally apply to activities and costs associated with general administration that are carried out in support of qualified research. In general, these costs are not eligible for reimbursement unless there is a direct connection between them and the activities that qualify as research.

Seeking Professional Guidance

It can be difficult to navigate the complexities of qualifying expenditures for research and development when there are so many options available. To ensure accurate identification and documentation of eligible expenses, businesses should consult with tax professionals or R&D tax credit specialists. Expertise from professionals can assist businesses in optimizing the benefits of R&D tax credits while maintaining compliance with the guidelines and regulations set forth by the IRS.

Want to know how you can complete your tax credit claim in half the time without sacrificing the quality of the analysis? Message us today.

Maximizing Tax Benefits through Qualified Expenditure for Research and Development

It is essential for companies that want to take advantage of the R&D tax credit to have a solid understanding of the criteria established by the IRS as well as the concept of qualified research expenses. Businesses have the opportunity to potentially benefit from a reduction in their tax liabilities on a dollar-for-dollar basis if they identify and document the eligible expenses that they incur, such as employee wages, supply costs, and expenses related to contract research. However, in order to successfully navigate the complexities of qualifying expenditures and ensure compliance with the regulations set forth by the IRS, it is essential to seek the guidance of a professional.

Related Link: R&D Tax Credit Documentation Needed