Architecture R&D Tax Credits

Architectural companies devote significant time, money, and resources to R&D activities to expand and enhance building designs and procedures. However, such businesses are often unaware that costs incurred for R&D of new or improved functionality and energy efficiency may be eligible for the Architecture R&D tax credit. In fact, in 2018, only 28% of architecture companies applied for this incentive.

By claiming state and federal R&D tax credits, you can get a refund of up to 22% of your total QREs. However, your potential gain will depend on various factors, like your company’s location. That is because 42 states offering such R&D tax programs have different requirements.

Qualifying Costs and Activities

Essentially, the expenses you make during research for third-party contractors, employee salaries, raw materials, and supplies are all considered QREs. With R&D tax credit in the Architecture industry, you can also cover payrolls for architects, C-suite, CAD engineers, project managers, design directors, structural engineers, project designers, and managing principals. Furthermore, activities eligible for this incentive include:

• Putting innovative design ideas into practice to increase space utilization;

• Making schematic, development, and construction documents;

• Discovering new, environmentally friendly, or sustainable features;

• Making elevation drawings;

• Putting special energy-saving measures into practice;

• Making decisions for a new facility using BIM (building information modeling).

When You Need Expert Help

Feel free to contact our team of tax credit professionals to calculate your R&D tax credit without upfront costs.

FAQs

What kind of companies can apply?

Architecture companies no older than five years with yearly gross sales of less than $5 million.

What data do I need to calculate credit?

Claim period gross receipts.

What information do I need to provide?

General ledger expense detail, payroll records, project notes, project lists, emails, and other documents regarding QREs for the claiming period.

Is credit carryforward an option?

Yes, usually up to twenty years, but it depends on specific R&D tax programs.