Received an HMRC Enquiry Letter?
Don't panic—but do act quickly. Our specialists have defended R&D claims since 2009, achieving successful outcomes for companies across all sectors.
Why HMRC Enquires into R&D Claims
HMRC has significantly increased its compliance activity around R&D tax relief since April 2022. This isn't necessarily because your claim is wrong—enquiries can be triggered by various factors.
First-time claims
Higher scrutiny for new claimants
Claim value
Larger claims receive more attention
Risk indicators
Certain sectors or patterns flag for review
Random selection
Some enquiries are purely random compliance checks
Agent track record
Claims from agents with poor compliance records
The good news: Most enquiries are resolved successfully when handled professionally. The key is responding appropriately within the deadline.
Types of HMRC Enquiries
Understanding what type of enquiry you're facing helps determine the appropriate response strategy.
Pre-Payment Checks
HMRC reviews claim before payment is released. Most common since April 2022.
Aspect Enquiries
Targeted questions about specific parts of your claim, such as particular projects or costs.
Full Enquiries
Comprehensive review of your entire R&D claim and supporting documentation.
FIS Investigation
Fraud Investigation Service involvement (rare but serious).
The Innovation Plus Approach
Our enquiry defence service is built on 15+ years of experience navigating HMRC compliance processes.
Immediate Review
We analyse your enquiry letter and original claim within 24 hours
Strategy Development
We identify the best approach based on HMRC's specific questions
Evidence Gathering
We work with your technical team to compile supporting documentation
Professional Response
We draft comprehensive, factual responses that address HMRC's concerns
Ongoing Management
We handle all correspondence until resolution
We Can Help Even If We Didn't Prepare Your Original Claim
Many of our enquiry defence clients come to us after receiving letters about claims prepared by other advisers. We provide an objective review and professional representation regardless of who prepared the original claim.
Discuss Your EnquiryWhy Choose Innovation Plus?
Our track record and expertise make us the trusted choice for R&D enquiry defence.
Defending R&D claims since 2009
Founded by ex-Big Four specialists
Compliance-first approach
Tribunal experience
Learn More About Enquiry Defence
Explore our comprehensive guides to understand the enquiry process and how to respond effectively.
Types of Enquiries
Understand the different types of HMRC enquiries and what they mean.
Enquiry Process
What to expect from the enquiry timeline and key stages.
How to Respond
Golden rules and common mistakes when responding to enquiries.
Outcomes & Appeals
Possible outcomes, penalties, and your appeal rights.
For Accountants: HMRC Enquiry Defence for Your Clients
When your clients face HMRC R&D enquiries, Innovation Plus provides specialist defence. We handle all correspondence and protect the client relationship.
Learn How Partnership WorksDon't Wait Until Your Deadline Passes
The 30-day response window goes quickly. Contact us today for a free initial assessment of your enquiry.