Are you frustrated with how the CRA manages the SR&ED program? Did your last SR&ED claim review leave you dissatisfied? You're not alone—and there’s reason to be hopeful. The CRA is paying attention; now let’s see if they deliver on their promises.
The Boast Capital team had the opportunity to attend a session for SR&ED practitioners hosted by the CRA, where we heard directly from SR&ED directors in Ottawa as well as regional leaders and managers. Practitioners from a variety of firms were invited to hear updates from the CRA and take part in a Q&A session.
It was encouraging to hear that the CRA is listening to feedback from claimants and practitioners, and is actively working to improve the program. Every speaker from the SR&ED department emphasized the same core values. The key message was that the program is guided by:
[list list_style=”darkGrayDot”]- Fairness
- Communication
- Consistency
- Predictability
- Low administrative burden
The SR&ED headquarters team in Ottawa is working to ensure reviews are conducted fairly. Reviewers are being trained to attend onsite meetings with claimants without any preconceived ideas about eligibility, focusing on understanding the claimant’s situation.
Bonus: Click here to download our 20-page SR&ED Guide and learn everything you need to prepare a successful claim.
We learned that reviewers are being trained to approach reviews with an open mind, providing more transparency and better communication with claimants throughout the process. Reviewers are expected to share their assessment of the claim as early as possible—either during the onsite meeting or before sending a proposal letter to the claimant. The SR&ED division’s goal is to avoid situations where claimants feel confident after a review, only to later receive a proposal with an unexpected outcome. If disagreements arise, reviewers and their managers are encouraged to remain open-minded and meet with claimants in person to discuss any issues or concerns.
In 2016, the SR&ED department will focus on improving consistency. Reviewers will receive additional training to ensure the process is uniform across all regions and among all reviewers.
SR&ED headquarters has set a goal to improve predictability. The CRA recognizes that claimants need more certainty that their claims will be accepted before they submit them. To address this, new programs and services will be introduced in 2016—these should be announced in the coming weeks.
To reduce the administrative burden, reviewers are being asked to limit the amount of information they request in the request for information (RFI) requests during the review process. Plus, reviewers will no longer send RFIs before onsite meetings.
Overall, the meeting was positive. It’s reassuring to see the SR&ED division listening to concerns about how the program is managed and taking real steps to improve the review process. We’re optimistic about the program’s future—but only time will tell if these promises become reality!
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