Life Sciences R&D Tax Credits: Common Pitfalls and Recent Tax Change

Continuing the R&D tax credit series, this episode of the Healthcare & Life Sciences Podcast covers the complexity around qualifying opportunities in digital health and AI-enabled medical technologies. Hosts Adam Hunter, Assurance Services Partner, and Carolyn Smith Driscoll, Tax Credits & Incentives Advisory, discuss common mistakes that can reduce or jeopardize credits, key documentation and audit readiness considerations.

Key Topics

  • How software as a medical device (SaMD), AI, and digital health innovations can create significant R&D tax credit opportunities. 
  • Common pitfalls that lead companies to underclaim credits or create audit challenges, including insufficient documentation and funded research issues. 
  • Which costs may qualify for the credit, including employee wages, supplies, and certain contract research expenses. 
  • The importance of building audit-ready documentation and tracking activities at the business component level. 
  • Recent legislative changes and planning opportunities that could improve cash flow and enhance the value of R&D investments.

Join the conversation for these insights and to learn more about the impact of recent legislative changes on R&D tax treatment and cash flow planning.

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Adam Hunter Headshot

Adam Hunter

Assurance Services

Partner, Cherry Bekaert LLP
Partner, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC

Carolyn Smith Driscoll Headshot

Carolyn Smith Driscoll

Tax Credits & Incentives Advisory

Director, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC

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Learn how technology R&D tax credits work, what activities qualify, which costs are eligible, and how technology companies can maximize tax benefits.

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Learn what qualifies for life sciences R&D tax credits, where companies miss opportunities, and how documentation can help support stronger claims.

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