How to Reduce Your Corporation Tax Bill Legally in the UK

3. Use the Research & Development (R&D) Tax Relief Scheme

If your business is developing new products, processes, or technology, you may qualify for R&D tax credits, even if your project does not succeed. This is one of the most generous tax relief schemes in the UK.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can benefit from:

• Enhanced tax deductions on eligible R&D costs
• Possible cash payments from HMRC for loss-making companies

This relief can significantly reduce corporation tax liability and improve cash flow.

4. Consider the Patent Box Regime

Businesses that generate income from patented inventions can apply for the Patent Box scheme, which reduces corporation tax on qualifying profits to 10%—far lower than the standard rate.

If your company invests in innovation or intellectual property, this is a highly effective tax-saving opportunity.

5. Make Pension Contributions

Employer pension contributions are tax-deductible and an excellent way to reduce taxable profits while supporting your employees’ long-term financial wellbeing.

Benefits include:

• Lower corporation tax liability
• No National Insurance on employer contributions
• A valuable employee retention tool

This is a legal and strategic method of reducing your tax bill while adding value to your workforce.

6. Pay Yourself Tax-Efficiently

For business owners and directors, using a combination of salary and dividends can reduce both personal and corporate tax liabilities. Dividends are taxed at lower rates, and strategic planning ensures compliance while minimising costs.

An expert accountant can help structure this correctly for maximum efficiency.

7. Claim Relief on Losses

If your business made a loss in previous years, or if a specific project resulted in loss, you may be able to carry forward or carry back those losses to reduce your tax liability.

Types of loss relief include:

• Trading losses
• Terminal losses
• Losses from asset disposal

Proper utilisation of loss relief can significantly reduce future corporation tax bills.

8. Invest in Employee Training and Development

Training costs that improve employee skills and productivity are fully tax-deductible. Investing in staff development not only strengthens your team but also reduces taxable profits.

9. Review Your Business Structure

Your company structure can have a major impact on your corporation tax position. For example:

• Moving to a group structure
• Creating a holding company
• Splitting business activities

These strategies must be carefully planned to ensure legal compliance. A specialist accountant can advise on the most beneficial structure for your specific business goals.

10. Work with a Specialist Accountant

Corporation tax planning is complex, and missing out on reliefs or making mistakes can be costly. Working with a specialist firm like Stan Lee Accountancy Ltd ensures you:

• Stay compliant with HMRC
• Maximise tax relief opportunities
• Plan effectively for the long term
• Reduce tax liabilities legally and efficiently

Our experienced team supports businesses across London and the UK with expert tax planning, bookkeeping, and financial management.