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The R&D credit, in plain English

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7 Strategies to Qualify Internal Use Software for the R&D Tax Credit

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7 Strategies to Qualify Internal Use Software for the R&D Tax Credit

Explore comprehensive strategies to ensure your internal use software qualifies for the R&D tax credit in 2026.

Understanding R&D Tax Credit Software for Startups in 2026

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Understanding R&D Tax Credit Software for Startups in 2026

Explore software solutions to streamline R&D tax credit processes for startups, avoiding common pitfalls.

Understanding R&D Tax Credit Eligibility Criteria for Startups

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Understanding R&D Tax Credit Eligibility Criteria for Startups

Explore the eligibility criteria for R&D tax credits, tailored for startups seeking to innovate.

Visual depiction of IRS Form 6765 with integrated tech tools

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Understanding the New IRS Form 6765: Key Changes in 2026

Explore the 2026 changes to IRS Form 6765 and how they impact R&D tax credit claims.

Understanding R&D Tax Credit Qualification Criteria for Startups

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Understanding R&D Tax Credit Qualification Criteria for Startups

Comprehensive guide on R&D tax credit qualification criteria for startups.

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Section 174 in 2026: why it still matters for software development

Section 174 remains critical for software startups in 2026 due to foreign R&D amortization, recovery of past capitalized costs, Section 280C rules, and strict new IRS reporting requirements.

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Do contractor costs qualify for the R&D credit?

Yes. US-based contractor costs count at 65% of the amount paid, provided you bear the financial risk and retain the rights to the work.

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Can pre-revenue startups claim the R&D credit?

Pre-revenue startups can use the federal R&D tax credit to offset up to $500,000 of employer payroll taxes each year.

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Section 174A explained

Section 174A restores the immediate tax deduction for domestic software development and R&D costs, reversing the TCJA amortization rules.

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R&D capitalization repeal: what startup founders need to know

The OBBBA repealed mandatory R&D capitalization for domestic software development. Learn how you can fully deduct your R&D costs again and claim catch-up deductions.

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Form 6765 instructions for founders

A startup founder's guide to navigating IRS Form 6765, choosing the ASC method, electing the payroll tax offset, and understanding the new Section G requirements.

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Should you amend returns for Section 174?

The July 6, 2026 window to amend 2022–2024 returns for Section 174 has closed. Here's how the 2025 catch-up deduction still recovers those R&D costs.

Find out what your startup is owed

Tell us about your company. We connect your tools, run a first pass, and show you the number. If the credit isn't worth it, we'll tell you.