R&D Tax Incentive: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how New Zealand businesses can claim a 15% tax credit for eligible research and development expenditures.
The R&D Tax Incentive is a scheme that allows businesses to claim a portion of their research and development spending back as a tax credit.
Who it's for
This incentive is available to businesses that spend more than $50,000 on activities that meet specific research and development criteria.
What you get
You can receive a 15% tax credit on your eligible spending related to your research and development projects.
What it costs you
While there is no direct fee to apply, the process requires you to maintain rigorous and detailed records of all your R&D projects to prove your spending is eligible.
The catch to know
Many startups mistakenly believe that any software development qualifies as R&D. To qualify, your work must meet a specific test proving there is genuine scientific or technological uncertainty that your project aims to solve.
How to apply
- Ensure your business meets the minimum spending threshold.
- Maintain detailed documentation of all R&D activities and costs.
- Verify that your projects meet the required technical uncertainty tests.
- Submit your claim through the official portal: https://www.rdti.govt.nz