R&D Tax Relief
Since 2012, our dedicated R&D tax relief team has helped innovative businesses unlock the full value of their qualifying expenditure. Lumina, the dedicated R&D service from Ad Valorem Group, combines deep insight from former HMRC professionals with technical expertise across key sectors - giving us a unique ability to understand both what HMRC is looking for and the real-world innovation driving our clients' claims.
With over a decade of experience and a proven track record of successful claims, we’ve become trusted advisors for businesses across a wide range of sectors. Whether you're developing new products, improving processes, or solving complex technical challenges, we're here to ensure you’re rewarded for your innovation.
Claiming R&D Tax Credits
The R&D tax landscape has changed significantly in recent years. Updates to both the SME R&D scheme and the Research and Development Expenditure Credit (RDEC) for larger businesses have altered how relief is calculated, who qualifies, and how claims are submitted.
We keep our clients informed and compliant - guiding you through the complexities to make sure you claim with confidence and avoid common pitfalls.
The New Merged R&D Scheme
From April 2024, the SME and RDEC schemes have been merged into a single R&D regime. This simplification brings new rules around qualifying expenditure, subcontractor treatment, and relief rates.
The new rules apply for accounting periods starting on or after 1 April 2024, so it's crucial to understand how your year-end timing affects your eligibility and approach.
Loss-making SMEs may be eligible for the new Enhanced R&D Intensive Support (ERIS) scheme.
At Lumina, we provide clear guidance tailored to your business structure and sector. Whether you previously claimed under SME or RDEC, we ensure you transition seamlessly and continue to claim everything you’re entitled to under the new framework.
HMRC Enquiries
If HMRC raises questions, we respond with confidence, clarity, and credibility - minimising disruption and resolving enquiries efficiently. Headed by a former senior HMRC inspector, our team has an in-depth understanding of the enquiry process. If a claim is selected for review, we ensure communication is handled in the most effective way - bringing all our knowledge and insight into the enquiry to achieve a swift and successful resolution.
Understanding the Changing Landscape
Tax tribunal cases are shaping HMRC’s evolving view on what qualifies as R&D. At Lumina, we actively monitor these developments, incorporating the latest precedents and compliance signals into every claim we prepare.
Our insights give your business a vital edge - ensuring your claim reflects current thinking and stands up to scrutiny.
Why Work with Lumina?
- Dedicated R&D team – including former HMRC and specialist technical consultants, within an ACCA-regulated, award-winning firm.
- 100% focus on compliance and optimisation - we ensure all qualifying costs are captured.
- Efficient, low-disruption process - we respect your time while sharing clear guidelines regarding the information we need.
- Peace of mind – we only submit claims we have confidence in, especially important in a time of increased HMRC scrutiny.
Supporting Partner Firms
Lumina is proud to partner with accountancy and advisory firms across the UK, providing expert R&D tax relief support to enhance your client services without the need to build an in-house team in what is a complex and specialist area.
We deliver in-depth technical guidance, narrative preparation, cost compilation and claim submission expertise - freeing up your time and safeguarding your client relationships.
With HMRC significantly increasing scrutiny of R&D claims, it's more important than ever to have specialist support rather than relying on general practice. Our team understands exactly what HMRC expects, helping ensure your clients' claims are fully compliant, defensible, and optimised.
Lumina R&D Team
Meet the specialists within our R&D tax relief team
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Frequently Asked Questions
I just wanted to drop a quick message to say how unbelievably impressed I have been with the service this year. I particularly want to extend my thanks and appreciation to Panos who has written up one of the best technical reports I have read to date. I have probably submitted in the region of 10+ R&D claims across different companies and every year I end up having to get significantly involved to ensure the right points are being made and that the report is truthful and accurate to what we actually did. It really does speak volumes that I have made absolutely zero changes to the issued draft; it was completely nailed first time.
Louis Fitzsimmons
Sure24 Limited
Claim with Confidence. Work with R&D Experts.
With increased HMRC scrutiny, now more than ever you need a specialist team on your side. Lumina brings expert insight, technical knowledge, and proven experience to every claim.
Case Studies
Success stories from our clients
Explore how Lumina’s technical insight and practical approach give SMEs the confidence to make smarter decisions and achieve sustainable growth.