Data and Cloud Computing Costs for R&D Tax Relief

Published by Mohsin Khan posted in Research And Development (R&D), Tax Services on January 1, 2025

Since April 2023, data and cloud computing costs directly associated with Research and Development (R&D) activities have been recognised as eligible expenses for R&D tax claims in the UK. This change reflects the growing importance of digital technologies in research, providing businesses with more opportunities to claim relief for innovation-driven costs.

Eligible Data and Cloud Computing Costs

  1. Data Licences: The costs for purchasing or accessing data licences are now eligible under R&D tax claims if they support R&D activities. This includes datasets used for training AI models, running simulations, or analysing large-scale scientific data.
  2. Cloud Computing Services: Costs related to cloud computing, such as server time, cloud storage, and computing power, are eligible if directly linked to R&D. These expenses are associated with running experiments, processing data, and hosting development environments necessary for research.
  3. Exclusions: It’s important to note that routine data storage costs and general cloud computing services that don’t contribute directly to R&D are not eligible. Only services that are integral to the research process qualify.

How Apex Accountants Can Help

At Apex Accountants, we specialise in navigating the complexities of R&D tax claims, including the new eligibility of data and cloud computing costs. Our experienced R&D tax advisors provide the following services:

  • Identify Eligible Costs: We help businesses pinpoint and separate expenditure of both cloud and data that are eligible for R&D tax relief. Our goal is to ensure that you claim the maximum relief available.
  • Documentation Support: We assist in maintaining accurate records, such as invoices and usage logs, to meet HMRC requirements and substantiate your claims.
  • Comprehensive Claim Management: From assessing your R&D projects to preparing and submitting your claim, we offer full support throughout the process to make it as straightforward as possible.

Claim Your Full R&D Tax Relief with Apex Accountants

Don’t miss the opportunity to claim data and cloud computing costs for your R&D projects. Contact Apex Accountants today to speak with our expert R&D tax advisors. Let us help you maximise your R&D tax claims and ensure that your innovations receive the financial support they deserve. Start your claim with us now and optimise your R&D investments while meeting all HMRC requirements.

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