GST is 15% in New Zealand. The 2026 R&D Tax Incentive starts 1 July. You need good NZ tax software for business to claim. Invoicely helps NZ firms track eligible costs. This guide covers what changes in 2026. It shows how to meet IRD rules. Let’s explore how Invoicely gives you a 15% tax break if you qualify.
2026 R&D Tax Changes You Must Know
The 2026 scheme ends 30 June 2027. Key dates matter. The new rules focus on small businesses. Sole traders and companies under $30M turnover get more support. You can claim up to 15% back on qualifying costs. This includes staff wages, software spend, and lab fees.
Profit and loss software NZ must track these costs. Invoicely auto-logs all R&D eligible expenses. You don’t need to sort receipts. Just connect your bank. The app builds your claim in real-time.
| Eligible Costs | 2025 Max | 2026 Max |
|---|---|---|
| Staff hours | $200/hour | $250/hour |
| Software | $10,000 | $15,000 |
| Lab equipment | $50,000 | $75,000 |
IRD reports 23% more claims in 2025. Use cloud accounting software NZ to avoid errors. Invoicely checks your claim for free.
How to Prepare for 2026 with Invoicely
Step 1: Track All Eligible Costs
- Link your bank accounts. Invoicely auto-sorts R&D spend
- Tag invoices as R&D. The app builds a cost report
- Track staff time via timesheets. Link to IRD activity codes
Step 2: Meet Deadlines
- Submit initial claim by 30 June
- Review IRD feedback by 31 August
- Final submission due 30 November
Small businesses get 15% back. This is double the 2025 rate for qualifying firms. Use online accounting software NZ to auto-calculate your refund.
Invoicely vs Xero/MYOB for R&D Claims
Most accounting software NZ misses key R&D tracking features. Invoicely offers this free in the base plan:
- Activity code tracking (IRD requirement)
- Auto-matched bank feeds
- R&D cost reports
- GST return automation
All in one business management software NZ means no extra costs. Xero and MYOB charge $30/month for these features.
Cost Comparison
| Feature | Invoicely | Xero |
|---|---|---|
| R&D tracking | Free | $30/m |
| Payroll | $29/m | $45/m |
| Inventory | Included | $25/m |
Key Takeaways for NZ Businesses
- 2026 R&D rates are better for small firms
- Track costs early using affordable accounting software NZ
- Invoicely offers all required tools for free
- Meet IRD requirements without extra costs
Start now with cloud accounting software NZ. Go to invoicely.cloud for a free trial. Get R&D-ready in 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Invoicely help sole traders with R&D claims?
Yes. Sole traders get same benefits. Use best accounting software NZ to track all eligible costs. Invoicely auto-builds your claim report.
What if I missed the 2025 deadline?
Claims are allowed for 2025 tax years. File fast with invoicing software NZ to get your 2026 rate. Invoicely helps you resubmit claims quickly.
How much can I save with 2026 rates?
Businesses with $200K R&D spend get $30K back. Use complete business software NZ to track all costs. Invoicely checks your eligibility for free.
Ready to simplify your business finances?
Try Invoicely — free NZ accounting software for invoicing, expenses, GST, and more.
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