Startup Smoothing Out Tax Filing

Case Study: Startup Smoothing Out Tax Filing
Client Profile: A fast-growing UK-based tech startup with international investors and early revenue generation
Industry: Technology / SaaS
Services Provided: Corporation Tax Preparation, R&D Tax Relief, Accounting & Advisory

Challenge:
The client approached Equarius Advisory in its second year of operations, having just secured funding and begun generating revenue. Despite early success, their tax filings had been left to the last minute in year one, resulting in missed relief opportunities and high stress during compliance deadlines. With limited in-house finance capability, they needed a partner to streamline the entire tax process—accurate, proactive, and hands-on.

Our Approach:
We began by reviewing the previous year’s filings and quickly identified areas for improvement, including missed R&D tax credits and inefficient expense categorisation. We implemented a quarterly accounting review cycle to keep records clean and tax-ready throughout the year. We also created a timeline and checklist for key filing deadlines, ensuring the client had full visibility and peace of mind.

Additionally, we prepared and submitted an R&D tax relief claim which resulted in a significant cash credit that the client reinvested into product development. We also advised on structuring to prepare the business for future investor due diligence and international scaling.

Results:
The client’s year-two tax filing was completed well ahead of HMRC deadlines, with full transparency and zero surprises. They received an R&D refund within eight weeks of submission, and now operate on a proactive compliance schedule. With Equarius Advisory handling ongoing tax and accounting, the founders are free to focus on growth, knowing their financial foundations are secure.

Takeaway:
For startups, clean tax processes and proactive planning can make a measurable difference—not just in compliance, but in cash flow, investor confidence, and long-term strategy. Equarius Advisory provides the clarity, structure, and expertise that startups need to grow without financial friction.

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