How to claim research payroll tax credits

Description

Abstract: If a business dedicates resources to creating or improving products, processes or software, it may be eligible for substantial federal tax credits for “increasing research activities.” There’s just one catch: To enjoy the benefits, the company must have sufficient federal tax liability against which to offset the credit. Historically, that meant income tax liability, but qualifying small businesses may now elect to apply some or all of their research credit against up to $250,000 in payroll taxes. This article details how to claim a research payroll tax credit. A sidebar explains how a business can claim the credit on their 2016 return.