Think Tank Maths

We were a little sceptical about the R&D Tax Credit system and our eligibility when Jumpstart first approached us. One of the key factors in making our decision to give it a try was that Jumpstart said they would not take us on as a client if the numbers did not make it worthwhile. That seemed a significant guarantee and an important one. It took away the fear that we would waste valuable time and effort with little to show for it - a potential nightmare for any SME! Jumpstart work on a no-win-no-fee business model, so we clearly had nothing to lose.

It was surprising to learn that Jumpstart only employs technical guys; not accountants or tax specialists. Indeed, you need these savvy scientists to grasp your technical issues and to apply the legislation.

The biggest surprise was in understanding how the system really works and finally have the rules explained unambiguously about what is eligible. There are a lot of misguided and confusing interpretations out there.

Three man-days to get back 50% of our corporate tax over 2 years is not bad. That’s a useful cash injection to an SME or indeed any business looking for growth and investment!

It’s been a very simple, streamlined and efficient process with Jumpstart. We expected multiple meetings; to-ing and fro-ing document versions, but it was not like that at all. The first stage of the process was a meeting with one of Jumpstart's Technical Analysts, who then wrote up the technical significance and impact. The text was well written and captured our technological achievements so well (needing a few tweaks by our team) that we thought, “that’s a darn good way of describing that project !”

Jumpstart even contacted HMRC for us before our tax was due so we didn’t have to fork out the money before we got the payment. The dialogue Jumpstart has with the people on the other side is great.

I have a keen interest in identifying schemes, which help SMEs survive and grow, particularly in this economic climate. So the fact that the R&D tax credit programme is not well understood is an issue. As long as business owners do not understand the system and how to claim what is due to them, it is lost investment for British businesses. This has a direct impact on our economic growth locally and nationally, and makes British businesses less competitive internationally.

To get the maximum out of your R&D tax claim is it essential to have technical people who really understand what you do and are able to articulate it to HMRC. With Jumpstart there is no risk involved. They created value for our business with minimal fuss and effort.

I have no hesitation in recommending Jumpstart. Based on our experience, I can assure you that the initial session with Jumpstart will be the most effective hour you will spend this year ! They are capable, a pleasure to work with – and effective.

Jumpstart are now on our team of trusted advisers !

Angela Matis
CEO