R AND D CREDITS ARE NOT JUST FOR TECH WHO QUALIFIES IN 2026
- Our Impact Team
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Many business owners assume research and development credits only apply to tech companies. This assumption costs money. In 2026, businesses across multiple industries qualify when they improve products, processes, or systems. Understanding eligibility unlocks real tax savings.
WHAT THE R AND D CREDIT REWARDS
The R and D credit rewards innovation. Innovation includes improving how work gets done, not only inventing new products. Qualified activity involves experimentation, problem solving, and uncertainty.
COMMON MYTHS ABOUT R AND D CREDITS
Only tech companies qualify
You need a laboratory
You must succeed to qualify
Credits only apply to large companies
These myths block access.
INDUSTRIES THAT OFTEN QUALIFY IN 2026
Manufacturing
Process improvements, automation, and quality control enhancements qualify.
Construction and Engineering
Design changes, materials testing, and efficiency improvements qualify.
Food and Beverage
Recipe development, shelf life testing, and production improvements qualify.
Architecture and Design
New design methods and materials testing qualify.
Healthcare and Life Sciences
Process improvements and workflow optimization qualify.
Professional Services
Custom solutions, system builds, and operational improvements qualify.
WHAT ACTIVITIES QUALIFY
Developing or improving products
Enhancing internal systems
Automating workflows
Testing new methods
Resolving technical uncertainty
Routine work does not qualify. Innovation does.
WHAT COSTS QUALIFY
Employee wages tied to qualified activity
Contractor costs
Supplies used in development
Cloud computing tied to R and D
Proper allocation matters.
WHY R AND D CREDITS GET MISSED
Documentation feels complex.
Many CPAs avoid credits without specialized support.
Businesses fail to track qualifying activity in real time.
Without planning, credits disappear.
HOW TO QUALIFY SAFELY IN 2026
Document processes and experimentation.
Track employee time tied to development.
Maintain project notes and testing records.
Align claims with IRS guidelines.
Substance and documentation matter.
WHEN TO EXPLORE R AND D CREDITS
Ongoing process improvements
New product development
Software or system builds
Automation initiatives
Efficiency upgrades
Waiting until filing season limits access.
WHAT STRATEGIC R AND D PLANNING LOOKS LIKE
Credits integrate into tax strategy and cash flow planning.
Documentation supports defensibility.
Claims align with growth goals.
Planning replaces guesswork.
How We Can Help
The Loomis Reddick and Bishop Impact Team helps businesses identify qualifying R and D activities, document properly, and claim credits with confidence. Our team integrates credits into proactive tax and financial strategy.
Contact Us
Reach out to the Loomis Reddick and Bishop Impact Team for support and further assistance. Stop assuming you do not qualify and start capturing available R and D credits in 2026.
We Transform Your Vision Into Reality, Empowering You to Thrive & Go Further Faster!
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