What is the R&D tax credit?

The R&D tax credit (IRC Section 41) is a federal tax incentive that rewards businesses for investing in innovation — including developing new products, improving processes, building software, and solving technical challenges.

How much does Alexander & Blake charge?

Alexander & Blake typically works on a contingency basis. There is no upfront retainer — our fee is based on a percentage of credits identified, paid after filing.

Does my business qualify for R&D tax credits?

If your business develops or improves products, processes, software, or techniques, and faces technical uncertainty in doing so, you may qualify. The credit applies across many industries including manufacturing, software, construction, and engineering.

Manufacturing Industry

SC Manufacturers Qualify for Significant R&D Credits.

If your team improves processes, develops new products, or solves engineering problems, you are likely leaving thousands in unclaimed tax credits on the table every year.

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What Manufacturing Activities Qualify?

You may be surprised how much of your everyday work qualifies

Process Improvement

Developing or improving manufacturing processes, reducing defects, increasing efficiency, or improving yields all qualify as R&D activities.

New Product Development

Designing and developing new products, components, or materials — including prototype development, testing, and iteration.

Tooling and Die Design

Custom tooling, fixture design, die development, and related engineering work to support manufacturing operations.

Automation and Robotics

Designing, programming, and integrating automated systems, robotics, and custom machinery into production lines.

Materials Testing

Testing new materials, compounds, or formulations to determine suitability for manufacturing applications.

Quality Engineering

Developing new quality control methodologies, testing protocols, and inspection systems to meet tighter tolerances.

Real Results for SC Manufacturers

A Spartanburg-area manufacturer had filed taxes for 8 years without ever claiming R&D credits. After a free assessment, we identified $1.2M in qualifying research expenses and recovered $197,000 in combined federal and SC state credits.

IndustryAutomotive Parts Manufacturing

LocationSpartanburg, SC

Qualifying Expenses$1,200,000

Federal Credit$137,000

SC State Credit$60,000

Total Recovered$197,000

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my manufacturing company qualify?

If your engineers or technicians spend time solving technical problems, developing new processes, or improving existing products, you almost certainly qualify. Most manufacturers are surprised by how much qualifies.

What records do I need?

Payroll records, project documentation, engineering notes, test results, and contractor invoices are the most common. We help you identify and organize what you already have.

How far back can I claim?

You can typically file amended returns going back 3 years for federal credits and up to the statute of limitations for SC state credits, meaning you may recover credits for years you never claimed.

Get Your Free Manufacturing R&D Assessment

Find out exactly what your manufacturing company qualifies for. No upfront cost. No obligation.

Estimate Your Credit Schedule a Consultation