
Did you know that Electrical Contractors may be eligible to receive Research and Development (R&D) tax credits?

Recent changes under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) are bringing welcome relief to businesses that invest in research and development. Through Section 174A, companies can once again immediately deduct domestic research and development (R&D) expenses incurred after December 31, 2024, reversing the five-year amortization rule that had been in place since 2022.

Engineers, manufacturers, and other individuals engaging in current research and development of drone technology are eligible for R&D federal and state tax credits.

Choosing an R&D tax partner that can work seamlessly with your firm can offer great value to both your firm and your clients. Here are seven important qualities to keep in mind when choosing the right R&D expert.

Consider making the R&D tax credit part of your long-term strategic planning and make sure you’re not leaving money you’ve earned on the table.

Does your manufacturing business improve a process or product for the automotive industry? Do you work to make an automotive product cleaner or more efficient? Or, perhaps you provide technical solutions that make production work more efficiently. If you are conducting any of these activities, are you taking advantage of the research and development (R&D) tax credit?

The R&D tax credit has always rewarded innovation, but 2026 marks a turning point thanks to the sweeping changes introduced by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) in 2025. The OBBBA strengthened and modernized the R&D Tax Credit by expanding eligibility, restoring value to domestic research, and improving cash flow opportunities for innovative businesses. These OBBBA benefits have transformed the credit from a niche tax incentive into a core financial strategy for growth minded companies.

Efforts made to design and develop new products and manufacturing processes for improved performance and efficiency in the tool and die industry can qualify for research and development tax credits.

When you think about it, packaging is essential for any product being sold. From storage to transport to the end user, package designers seek ways to advance the quality, functionality and safety of their products—all within compliance of regulatory guidelines. Many package designers would be surprised to discover that many of the activities they already are conducting qualify for valuable tax credits.

Does your dairy company undertake activity intended to develop a new or improved product or process for yourself or your customer?