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Tax Credit for Research (CIR): Methods of Claim, Requirements, and Amounts Specified

Financing innovation in France is largely facilitated via the research tax credit. This tax break serves to bolster and foster innovation within the economic infrastructure of France. The functionality and eligibility criteria for this support are examined here. Who qualifies for this aid, and...

French Innovation Support via Research Tax Credit: Detailing Its Operations, Eligibility, and...
French Innovation Support via Research Tax Credit: Detailing Its Operations, Eligibility, and Conditions

Tax Credit for Research (CIR): Methods of Claim, Requirements, and Amounts Specified

Innovation Funding: The Research Tax Credit (CIR) Unveiled

Hey there! Here's a lowdown on the Research Tax Credit (CIR) in France, a nifty funding option that supports innovation within the country's economic fabric. Let's delve into who can benefit, how it works, and how much you might receive.

What's the Scoop on the Research Tax Credit (CIR)?

Definition and Partial Reimbursement

The CIR is a tax credit applied to the research and development (R&D) expenses incurred by a company during a given fiscal year. This mechanism enables innovative companies to benefit from a partial refund of these expenses, regardless of whether they owe taxes or not, thus supporting innovation across various sectors.[1]

Who Can Cash In?

Eligible Companies

The CIR applies to any industrial, commercial, or agricultural company subject to corporate or income tax in France. size, location (even dynamic or revitalizing employment areas), or even tax-exempt status (such as young innovative companies) can cash in on this credit.[1]

Eligible Expenses

The eligible expenses cover a variety of costs, including researcher and technician salaries, depreciation of R&D equipment and structures, patent and model protection fees, technological watch, subcontracting costs, and expenses related to the application of research results.[2]

Conditions for Benefiting

Details to Keep in Mind

The company should declare its R&D expenses via the Form 2069-A-SD attached to its results declaration. A detailed justification file explaining the research activity, scientific objectives, resources deployed, and expected results is also essential, especially in case of a tax administration audit.[2]

The information and documents required differ depending on the amount of expenses considered for the CIR calculation:

  • Less than 10 million euros
  • Between 10 and 100 million euros
  • Above 100 million euros

The data center costs involved in R&D activities can also be taken into account for the CIR, and certain R&D investments in renewable energy and digital infrastructure may be eligible given recent government initiatives.[5]

How Does It Work?

Breaking Down the CIR

The CIR is based on the R&D expenses incurred during the fiscal year and can offset the company's tax liability or be refunded if no tax is due, provided the research efforts meet the scientific requirements set by the tax authorities.[2]

How Much Can You Expect?

The Buck Amount

The CIR amounts to:

  • 30% of R&D expenses up to 100 million euros (50% for companies in overseas departments)
  • 5% above the 100-million euro threshold

Depending on the company's status and location, additional rates may apply, such as for young innovative companies or as part of regional finality aid.[2]

In the realm of business, the Research Tax Credit (CIR) could potentially benefit companies in sectors like manufacturing, as it covers a variety of expenses related to research and development, including salaries for researchers and technicians. In finance, this tax credit can offer a significant refund of up to 30% of eligible R&D expenses for companies that meet the scientific requirements set by the tax authorities, thus providing a strategic funding option for innovation.

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