Our Rates Explained | A Transparent and Conservative Approach

In line with our prudent philosophy, Swanson Reed is committed to adopting transparent compensation structures that mitigate risk. We prioritize engagements with hourly rates or a fixed fee, as an outcome-based model (contingency fee or success fee) creates an incentive to maximize the value of claims; a motivation that directly contrasts with our prudent approach to claim preparation and risk management.

Although the application of fixed fees represents our standard practice, in limited circumstances, we may offer outcome-based compensation. This option is reserved for clients with proven experience who fully understand the risks associated with the R&D tax credit application process. In such cases, we apply a specific risk management policy, in accordance with the guidelines of our ISO:31000 – Risk Management certification (see the table below). Where relevant, “chinese walls” (information barriers) will also be implemented for all personnel involved in the engagement, to ensure that every team member is focused on their specific tasks and that the agreement does not generate any conflict of interest.

• Hourly Rate

The fee is calculated based on the hourly rates of the professionals involved in the engagement and the number of hours actually spent to complete it. Our current hourly rates range from €195 to €395 per hour, plus VAT and statutory charges.

• Outcome-Based Compensation

With this option, our fee is tied exclusively to the benefit obtained from our work. Should no benefit be obtained, no fee will be due, regardless of the time we have dedicated to the engagement. This type of agreement is always formalized through a written contract to ensure maximum clarity.

• Mixed Formula (Hybrid Approach)

This solution represents a personalized combination of the hourly rate and outcome-based compensation. It is ideal for aligning our interests with yours, balancing risk and investment.

• No Charge for Disbursements

As a rule, our firm bears all operating expenses. In rare cases, where significant and unforeseen costs are necessary to complete the mandate, such expenses will be discussed and approved with you in advance. No surprises on the invoice.

What We Do?

Are You Elegible?

Pass an Audit?

Software Development Tax Credit | Fee Example | R&D Claim Review

• The Project: A tech startup is creating a new mobile app that uses a proprietary algorithm to analyze user data in real-time and provide personalized financial advice.
• The Uncertainty: The team is unsure how to process the enormous volume of data in real-time on a mobile device without causing excessive battery consumption or performance issues. Different data compression techniques and processing architectures are experimented with, resulting in numerous failed experiments and subsequent iterations.
• The Claim: The company can claim the R&D tax credit for the time and costs associated with the experimentation, testing, and development of the new algorithm and its implementation, necessary to overcome the technical uncertainty.
• Scope of Work: The client independently prepared their claim and desires a third-party review. They have therefore engaged a Swanson Reed consultant to examine the claim for 2 hours.
• Fees: 195×2 hours = €390

Food Industry | Fee Example | Preparation of Response to Information Document Request (IDR) during Tax Audit

• The Project: A manufacturing company in the food sector wants to create a new line of protein bars with a longer shelf life, without using artificial preservatives.
• The Uncertainty: The research team is unsure which combination of natural ingredients can ensure the product remains stable and palatable for an extended period. Various combinations of natural sweeteners, binders, and fruit extracts are tested, experimenting with different ratios and processing methods.
• The Claim: The company can claim the R&D tax credit for the time dedicated to the formulation, testing, and analysis of the various ingredient combinations and processing techniques, aimed at resolving the scientific uncertainty related to natural preservation.
• Scope of Work: The client has been subjected to a tax audit and has engaged a Swanson Reed Director to prepare the response to the fourth Information Document Request (IDR). The preparation of this response requires 2 hours.
• Fees: 395×2 hours = €790

R&D Tax Credit: Example for the Manufacturing and Engineering Sector | Fee Example | Technical Consulting

• The Project: An engineering company is designing a new type of lightweight drone for commercial deliveries.
• The Technical Uncertainty: The team is unsure how to design a new wing and motor system that maximizes lift and stability while minimizing weight. Multiple prototypes are therefore built and tested, conducting a series of aerodynamic experiments and using new composite materials never before applied in this way.
• Eligible Expenses: The company can include in the tax credit claim the costs related to the salaries of engineers and designers, the materials used for the prototypes, and the testing and analysis expenses necessary to overcome the technical uncertainties.
• Scope of Work: The client requested one of our directors, with professional engineering qualifications, to hold a one-hour training session with their team of engineers on the eligibility criteria for the R&D Tax Credit.
• The Fee: 395×1 hour = €395

Our Risk Management Compliance Framework (ISO 31000) Guaranteeing Rate Transparency and a Prudent Approach

The table below consolidates the key elements of the Swanson Reed fiduciary and compliance framework, describing their implications for clients.

DO YOU NEED ASSISTANCE WITH A TAX AUDIT?

If you have independently submitted your R&D Tax Credit claim, Swanson Reed’s tax specialists are available to provide assistance. We offer the support, competence, and experience necessary to handle the tax audit without stress. Thanks to our excellent success rate, we put all our accumulated experience and professionalism to your advantage.

At Swanson Reed, we constantly collaborate with our clients, ensuring they are prepared to face every stage of the process, from planning to submitting the R&D Tax Credit application. If needed, we will defend you throughout the entire tax audit process.

We work with companies from every sector, representing them in all matters related to the R&D Tax Credit and offering full support for verifying eligibility requirements and preparing documentation. The audit defense service provided by Swanson Reed is one of the factors that allows us to always stay one step ahead of the competition.