How NTG Mutual Section 174 Coverage is Solving Cash-Flow Issues for Businesses Claiming R&D Tax Credits 

As tax regulations continue to evolve, businesses engaged in research and development (R&D) are facing new and complex challenges. The recent changes in the treatment of R&D expenses, especially under Section 174 of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, have created a significant financial strain for companies.

Many are left wondering how to navigate this new landscape, especially as it relates to cash-flow management and compliance with tax laws. Fortunately, NTG Mutual Section 174 Coverage provides a breakthrough solution that could relieve much of this burden.

 Here’s how NTG is helping businesses keep their cash-flow intact while staying compliant. 

The Impact of Section 174 on R&D Credits

Prior to 2022, businesses could fully deduct their R&D expenses in the same year they were incurred. This allowed for immediate relief and created a strong incentive to invest in innovation.

However, under the new provisions of Section 174, companies are now required to capitalize their R&D expenses and amortize them over a five-year period. This change has left many businesses, particularly those heavily reliant on R&D, with a cash-flow issue that can hinder their operations. 

For example, if a company’s R&D expenditures are $100,000, they may only be able to deduct $20,000 in the current year, with the remaining $80,000 being capitalized and spread out over the next four years. This shift creates a tax liability in the current year while delaying the tax benefit, squeezing the business’s cash-flow. 

The Uncertainty Around Legislative Changes

In early 2023, the House of Representatives passed a bill to revert the treatment of R&D expenses to pre-2022 rules. However, the bill has stalled in the Senate, leaving businesses in limbo. Many tax professionals argue that the current treatment of R&D expenses was never intended to be a long-term solution, yet there is no clear indication when, or if, Congress will address this issue. 

This uncertainty has led businesses to adopt different strategies: 

  1. Waiting on the sidelines to see if Congress acts. 
  2. Cutting down or abandoning R&D activities to avoid adverse cash-flow situations. 
  3. Exploring creative solutions to manage the cash-flow strain and continue innovating. 

NTG’s Breakthrough Solution: Section 174 Coverage

NTG is offering an innovative and practical solution to address the cash-flow issues—Section 174 Coverage. This specialty insurance product is designed specifically for companies that are now required to capitalize and amortize their R&D expenses. 

 Here’s how it works: NTG Mutual operates as a mutual insurance company, where like-minded businesses facing the same challenges can obtain coverage. The insurance policy helps to offset the tax liability that companies face in the current year due to the capitalized expenses.

The best part? The premium paid for this insurance can often be deducted in the current year, providing immediate relief and improving cash-flow. 

Why Section 174 Insurance is a Game-Changer

  1. Immediate Cash-Flow Relief: By allowing businesses to deduct the insurance premium in the current year, NTG’s Section 174 Insurance helps offset the adverse effects of capitalizing R&D expenses. This allows businesses to maintain healthy cash-flow while staying compliant with tax laws. 
  2. Risk Management: Section 174 Insurance mitigates the financial risk associated with the new law. With uncertainty around future legislative changes, this coverage provides businesses with the peace of mind that they are protected against the worst-case scenario. 
  3. Tailored Solutions: NTG Mutual works closely with companies, their R&D advisors, and CPAs to determine the appropriate level of coverage. Each policy is customized to meet the unique needs of the business, ensuring maximum value. 
  4. Financing Options: For businesses concerned about the cost of premiums, NTG offers low-interest premium financing. This means that even cash-basis taxpayers can benefit from this solution without adding to their financial burden. 

What’s Next?

NTG Mutual offers a no-cost underwriting evaluation and cash-flow analysis to help businesses determine how much coverage they need. From there, companies can apply for insurance online and receive a proposal within 24-48 hours. With this solution, businesses no longer have to wait on Congress to act—they can take control of their cash-flow now. 

The Bottom Line

With the uncertainty surrounding R&D tax credit regulations, businesses need practical solutions to stay afloat. NTG Mutual Section 174 Coverage is more than just a stopgapit’s a breakthrough that empowers businesses to continue innovating without sacrificing financial stability. Don’t let cash-flow issues slow your growth—explore how NTG’s solution can keep your business on track.