Introduction: Financing CRA ( Canada Revenue Agency )Tax Credits Through Canada's SR&ED Program: A Strategic Guide for Canadian Businesses
Financing your SR&ED (Scientific Research & Experimental Development) tax credits is a strategic move offering dual advantages to Canadian businesses conducting research and engaging in research and development activities.
This article provides a guide to securing SR&ED loans, effectively transforming your tax credits into immediate cash flow to fuel your business operations as part of the government's work to encourage Canadian businesses to grow.
The Working Capital Dilemma in SR&ED Tax Credits
Canadian businesses involved in SR&ED activities often grapple with a working capital challenge.
Your SR&ED claim essentially represents locked-up cash flow waiting for government approval. The dilemma often becomes: "Do I wait for the government cheque that could take up to a year, or do I finance my SR&ED claim for immediate cash flow benefits?"
The Strategic Importance of Financing Your R&D Tax Credits
Investing in R&D activities enhances your competitive edge. By financing your SR&ED claims, you can instantly unlock these funds and put them to work for your business. Whether :
Launching a new product,
Boosting your sales activities,
Investing in more research
immediate access to cash gives your business an unparalleled advantage.
The Mechanism Behind SR&ED Financing
Financing your SR&ED claim essentially means monetizing it, often referred to as "discounting," "selling," or "factoring" the claim.
Even if you haven't booked your SR&ED claim as an account receivable, if the claim is legitimate, it stands as a valid receivable that can be converted into immediate cash flow and working capital.
Financing SR&ED Claims in the Canadian Financial Landscape
Canadian banks and mainstream financial institutions generally don't deal with SR&ED financing, which requires specialized knowledge and expertise.
The good news? The entire SR&ED financing process can be quick, often wrapping up within a few weeks. Here’s a simplified roadmap:
- Verify your eligibility for the SR&ED program.
- Prepare and file your claim. (Note: Claims can be financed before they are fully filed.)
- Assess the loan-to-value ratio (usually around 75%) and understand that these loans function as bridge loans, requiring no periodic payments.
Timing Is Everything: When to Opt for SR&ED Financing
The adage 'time is money' couldn't be more pertinent here. If you're close to receiving your government cheque for an already filed claim, SR&ED financing may not be your best option.
However, if your claim is still in the pipeline or pending an audit, monetizing your SR&ED claim becomes a strong consideration, especially if you require immediate working capital.
Companies should also consider SR&ED accrual financing, allowing businesses to fund accrued R&D-eligible expenses before they file their sr ed claim and income tax return.
Utilizing Your SR&ED Financing for Business Growth
By financing your SR&ED claim, you are essentially seizing the opportunity cost of capital. Most businesses can channel this immediate cash inflow towards generating sales, increasing profitability, or re-investing in R&D, thus creating a positive cycle of growth and innovation.
Conclusion
The SR&ED program is one of Canadian businesses' most lucrative support mechanisms, annually doling out billions in non-repayable grants. Financing your SR&ED claim mitigates working capital challenges and fosters an environment for continuous growth and competitive sustainability.
Call 7 Park Avenue Financial, a trusted, credible and experienced Canadian business financing advisor who can help you leverage your share of this incredible resource by considering SR&ED financing as a key pillar in your cash flow financial strategy.