R&D Tax Relief Learning Pathway, supported by ACCA

The R&D Tax Relief Learning Pathway, supported by ACCA, is practical, structured training for advisors who want to deliver accurate, compliant R&D tax relief advice with confidence in a changing regulatory landscape.

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Why accountants need specialist R&D training

HMRC has raised the bar for R&D tax relief. Claims are challenged more often. Compliance expectations are higher. And yet, the core questions remain the same:

  • What work can my clients claim for?
  • What costs can I include?

Getting those two questions wrong is the #1 reason claims are delayed or rejected.

This pathway provide clear answers to both.

You’ll learn:

  • Exactly how HMRC defines R&D (it’s not what many clients think)
  • The two routes software can qualify, and the errors advisors frequently make
  • How to set boundaries with clients so you only claim what is genuinely allowable
  • How to identify and apportion qualifying costs properly
  • The fundamentals of the Merged Scheme and how it differs from the old SME / RDEC schemes

It’s practical, relevant training that arms you with the core knowledge you need when talking to clients about R&D tax relief.

Who this training is for

Accountants and tax professionals who:

  • Support clients with R&D tax relief

  • Want clarity on HMRC’s requirements

  • Want to reduce risk and improve compliance.

What you will learn

  • How HMRC defines R&D and eligibility in practice

  • How to assess activities, costs, and software claims

  • How to identify and apportion qualifying R&D costs

  • How to apply HMRC and DSIT guidance with confidence

What is included and how it works

  • 8 hours of verified CPD in R&D tax relief

  • On-demand training with short videos and checkpoints

  • Guided reading of key HMRC documentation

  • Free 30-minute call with an R&D expert

Pricing

The ACCA R&D tax relief learning pathway costs £625+VAT.

Discounts are offered for members of ACCA and The R&D Community:

  • ACCA members: £500+VAT

  • Members of The R&D Community: £55+VAT

  • Dual members: £55+VAT

These rates are offered to support ongoing professional development for advisors actively engaged in R&D tax relief work.

Includes full access to the complete R&D Tax Relief Learning Pathway, 8 hours of verified CPD, and the free 30-minute expert call.

*A commission is received by ACCA for all signups.

What’s Included

8 hours of verified CPD, broken down into:

  • Understanding eligible R&D activities – 1.5 hours
  • Software claims: qualification routes & pitfalls – 1.5 hours
  • Qualifying costs & apportionment methods – 1.5 hours
  • The Merged R&D Scheme explained – 1.5 hours
  • Guided reading of key HMRC documentation – 2 hours

Plus:

A free 30-minute call with an R&D expert to help you apply what you’ve learned in practice.

Format & Access

The training is:

  • 100% online
  • Available on-demand 24/7
  • Delivered through bite-size videos and multiple-choice questions
  • Accessible immediately after payment

Designed to fit around busy professional schedules while still delivering depth and rigour.

Sign up below and get instant access to the training today.

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Why ACCA & The R&D Community Built This Together

ACCA is committed to equipping members with the clearest, most relevant training available, especially in areas where legislation is evolving rapidly.

With the increasing complexity of R&D tax relief and the introduction of the Merged Scheme and ERIS, it’s the right time to provide our members with a structured learning pathway that cuts through confusion and gives you the tools you need to deliver high-quality, compliant claims.

Why partner with The R&D Community?

The R&D Community is a specialist organisation dedicated exclusively to training, certification, and support in R&D tax relief. They also contribute regularly to HMRC consultations. This context allows them to bring the accuracy, practical insight, and real-world experience that ACCA members value.

Together, ACCA and The R&D Community are committed to raising standards across the R&D industry.

Ready to strengthen your R&D expertise?

Investing in R&D tax relief training allows you to:

  • give clients accurate advice on the eligibility of their work
  • ensure that only qualifying costs are included within claims
  • sense-check claims prepared by third parties.
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