Short answer
HMRC doesn't guarantee a timescale. Clean R&D claims are often paid within a few weeks to a few months of filing the company tax return, but payment can take much longer. Claims are delayed if HMRC opens an enquiry, the Additional Information Form is missing or incomplete, it is a first claim, or HMRC sets the credit against PAYE or VAT the company owes. If you can't wait, you can borrow against the claim.
Key facts
- No guaranteed HMRC timescale
- Clean claims: often weeks to a few months
- An HMRC enquiry can add months
- Arrears of PAYE or VAT are usually deducted first
- Payment goes to the company's bank account once processed
What affects how long a claim takes?
- Completeness. A missing or thin Additional Information Form makes the claim invalid or triggers questions.
- Compliance checks. HMRC has increased checks on R&D claims in recent years, especially larger or first-time claims.
- Time of year. Many companies file between December and March, so processing is slower then.
- Your tax position. HMRC can set the credit against other taxes the company owes.
How to avoid delays
- Use a reputable R&D tax adviser and keep project records as you go.
- Make sure the Additional Information Form is complete and matches the claim.
- Submit a claim notification on time if you are a first-time claimant.
- Keep PAYE and VAT up to date.
- Keep claim sizes consistent with previous years unless you can explain the jump.
What to do if HMRC is slow
If your claim has been with HMRC longer than expected, your adviser can contact HMRC's R&D team to check its status. If HMRC has opened an enquiry, see what happens if HMRC reduces or rejects your claim.
What if you can't wait?
You can borrow against the expected credit. Lenders typically advance 50–80% of the claim and are repaid when HMRC pays. See how much you can borrow and R&D tax credit finance costs compared.
How Nighthawk does it
Nighthawk's R&D Advance funds up to 80% of your eligible claim, typically in around five days, and builds each facility to run for up to six months to allow for HMRC delays.
Related questions
Does HMRC pay repeat claimants faster?
Not formally, but a consistent, well-documented claim history tends to mean fewer questions.
Can I chase HMRC for an R&D payment?
Yes, usually through your adviser or agent, once the normal processing time has passed.