S2. E4. R&D Tax Credit Enquiries – HMRC Process Explained - Ad Valorem
2 minutes
Getting a letter from HMRC about your R&D tax credit claim can be nerve-wracking — but it doesn’t always mean there’s a problem.
In this episode of the Lumina Podcast, hosts Nikki and Nigel Adams sit down with Suzanne Clements, R&D Tax Specialist, to unpack exactly what happens during an HMRC enquiry and how to handle it with confidence.
They cover:
✅ The first steps to take when an enquiry letter arrives
✅ How to manage information requests and communicate with HMRC
✅ What to know about pre-decision letters and penalty threats
✅ How Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and independent review really work
If you’re an advisor or business owner facing an R&D enquiry – or you just want to be prepared – this episode is full of practical guidance and reassurance from those who’ve seen it all before.
0:00 – Intro
4:04 – What to do when you receive an opening letter
8:43 – Responding to HMRC questions
12:50 – Penalties
18:54 – Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
21:14 – Businesses defending claims
24:18 – Businesses changing advisors for defending an enquiry
27:28 – What do you do if you feel HMRC hasn’t followed process
33:02 – Direct conversation with HMRC case worker
37:25 – Quickfire questions
