08/24/2026
💡 Did you know that millions of dollars in R&D tax credits go unclaimed every year?
I talk to business owners frequently who are leaving money on the table. It’s often due to one of these myths:
1️⃣ "We're not a tech company, so we don't qualify."
Wrong! Manufacturing, engineering, food & beverage, software, even construction can all qualify. If you're improving a product or process, you may be a candidate.
2️⃣ "We didn't invent anything groundbreaking."
You don't need a lab coat or a patent. Trial and error, prototyping, and process improvements can all count.
3️⃣ "It's too complicated and just not worth the paperwork."
It takes some documentation, but with the right guidance the return is usually well worth the effort.
4️⃣ "I’m worried it'll trigger an audit."
A properly documented study from a qualified provider actually reduces audit risk of an audit!
5️⃣ "Our CPA never mentioned it." Not every CPA specializes in this — it's a niche credit that often requires a specialist to identify and substantiate.
6️⃣ "We're not profitable yet, so why bother?"
Many startups can still use the credit to offset payroll taxes, even without taxable income.
If any of these sound familiar, it might be worth a closer look. You could be sitting on a refund!
Drop a comment 👇 or send me a message and let’s discuss your specific eligibility.
meetings.hubspot.com/achrisostlercpa/meet-with-chris-ostler