The R&D tax credit provides businesses with a tax reduction if they meet specific criteria. It is designed to inspire companies to develop innovative ideas and products that contribute to society. Businesses seeking to determine if they qualify for this tax reduction must select the right consulting company to ensure they secure the best possible deal.
Choosing a consulting company can feel daunting because there are so many options available. Below is a list of some of the best to help businesses find a good fit.
Methodology
These companies were selected and ranked based on a multi-faceted evaluation process. Key criteria included industry reputation, client testimonials, the depth and breadth of their service offerings, and the expertise of their teams. Similar lists were also compared, and each company’s specific features, methods and reputation were evaluated.
1. alliant
alliant is the best overall company for R&D tax credit consulting. The firm boasts several notable features, including its six divisions, which address the most common challenges businesses face today. The team can address these pain points and help achieve the best possible tax reduction, leveraging current knowledge and industry insights.
The company has been in business for 25 years and has experts from diverse industries to provide specialized care to a range of companies, including aerospace and poultry. A nice perk is that they offer free assessments to help companies see what they can do before making a significant commitment.
Key features:
- Six divisions to address business challenges
- Free assessments to determine eligibility
2. PwC
PwC works with businesses in the United States and globally, consulting with an extensive network of specialists who offer expertise across industries. It also utilizes AI to drive operations, boasting enhanced, tailored and seamless experiences.
Working closely with businesses, teams align with client goals to create a personalized approach. A notable attribute of the company is its commitment to utilizing the emerging energy landscape and helping businesses obtain sustainable growth.
Key features:
- Extensive network of global experts
- Focus on long-term and sustainable growth
3. RSM
RSM is a company run by tax professionals who promise deep technical knowledge. With industry-specific insight, the firm promises to adapt to meet clients’ specific needs. The team utilizes methodologies to capture and sustain any credits related to a business’s taxes.
Focusing on reducing tax liabilities, increasing cash flow, navigating specific federal requirements, minimizing disruption and adapting to a business’s growth, RSM helps businesses at every stage of the tax credit consulting process. It also gathers documentation resources to help companies withstand IRS and state reviews.
Key features:
- Deep technical knowledge from experienced tax professionals
- Helpful resource documentation for audit defense
4. Brown Plus
Brown Plus is an industry-recognized leader in interpreting IRS guidelines to determine whether businesses meet the criteria for the R&D tax credit. Teams offer practical knowledge and experience to support clients across industries.
When there are tax changes or key updates, the company promises to inform clients with the latest information. Its primary goal is to provide services that achieve the best outcomes possible.
Key features:
- Expertise in IRS guideline interpretation
- Proactive communication on tax changes and updates
5. Corporate Tax Advisors
Corporate Tax Advisors offers a complimentary initial consultation to all new customers and promises to charge clients only if it identifies qualifying credits at the state or federal level.
The firm emphasizes its commitment to helping new, entrepreneurial firms save money and grow. Corporate Tax Advisors takes pride in simplifying the tax code to enhance customer understanding. A commitment to collaboration, timeliness and accuracy is a key value mentioned on the website.
Key features:
- Only requires payment if the client receives available credits
- Dedicated support for startups and entrepreneurial ventures
6. Forvis Mazars
Forvis Mazars is a network of two companies that leverage their combined strengths. It prioritizes the next steps to help its clients plan. Forvis Mazars operates globally and in the U.S., using its international experience to deliver the best service to its clients.
Collaboration is one of its core values, emphasizing teamwork and the importance of truly understanding clients’ organizations. Some of the services Forvis Mazars provides include audit and assurance, tax consulting, and financial advisory services. As a large firm, it boasts an exceptional client experience.
Key features:
- A powerful global network formed by two leading firms
- Extensive experience collaborating closely with clients
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Reliable Consulting Company
It is important to understand what makes a good R&D tax credit consulting firm. Key features like credentials, trustworthiness and collaboration are important evaluation factors.
CredentialsÂ
Diversity among the team’s expertise usually indicates that they are credible, experienced in multiple fields, and able to offer new perspectives and ideas. Having someone from the client’s field provides additional security because they understand the company’s daily inner workings and the critical factors to focus on when evaluating the R&D credit.
Trustworthiness
Sometimes, the IRS chooses companies randomly for an audit. Potential audits can be scary, so having a consulting company that supports clients during that time and helps defend them can provide security and loyalty between both parties. A reliable company should also understand the terminology and what the audit specifically examines, so they can assist their clients in obtaining the proper documentation.
Collaboration
Upholding company values while also considering the client’s values fosters a positive partnership. The company should work closely with the client through every step of the process, not just examine everything and provide a quote.
Choosing a Consulting Company
Finding credits wherever possible allows companies to spend more of their saved funds on improving and growing their organization. By selecting the right consulting company for R&D tax credits, an organization sets itself up for a prosperous future.

