Credits & Incentives

Behind on capturing valuable incentives? We're ahead on the solution.

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Let our professionals evaluate eligibility, model benefits, and manage documentation through filing and audit support.

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Common Incentives We Help

Your dedicated team will get to know your business inside and out to craft credits and incentives strategies that are right for you.

  • Section 45L Energy‑Efficient Homes Credit
  • R&D Tax Credit
  • Cost Segregation
  • Our Credits & Incentives Process

Section 45L Energy‑Efficient Homes Credit

Who it’s for: Homebuilders and multifamily developers who construct and sell (or lease) qualifying energy‑efficient dwelling units.
  • Potential credit per dwelling unit based on efficiency standards (ENERGY STAR® and, in some cases, Zero Energy Ready Home).
  • Eligibility relies on certified modeling/inspection by a qualified rater and IRS‑approved software, plus required documentation.
  • For multifamily projects, prevailing wage requirements may apply.
Why it matters: 45L can improve project economics across single‑family, townhome, condo, and multifamily developments while advancing high‑efficiency design.

R&D Tax Credit

Who it’s for: Companies that design, develop, or improve products, processes, software, formulas, or techniques—across manufacturing, software/tech, engineering, food & beverage, medical devices, and more.
  • Covers qualifying research activities and related expenses (wages, supplies, certain contractor costs).
  • Startups may be able to offset payroll taxes when income tax liability is limited.
  • Recent legislative updates address the deductibility of domestic research costs and interaction with Section 280C (consult your tax advisor for current-year specifics).
Why it matters: The credit creates a repeatable annual benefit that rewards innovation, funds engineering roadmaps, and strengthens margins.

Cost Segregation

Who it’s for: Owners, investors, and developers of commercial or residential rental real estate who have built, purchased, renovated, or expanded property.
  • Engineering‑based study reclassifies building components into shorter‑life property (e.g., 5‑, 7‑, and 15‑year) to accelerate depreciation.
  • May increase current‑year deductions and improve cash flow; interaction with bonus depreciation and Section 179 should be evaluated.
  • Best for properties with significant basis and detailed cost records (closing statements, construction ledgers, drawings).
Why it matters: Accelerated depreciation helps free up capital for growth, debt reduction, or new projects.

Our Credits & Incentives Process

  • Discovery & Feasibility — We review activities, properties, and prior filings to identify eligible credits and model potential benefits.
  • Qualification — We confirm criteria (e.g., technical tests for R&D, energy modeling and certifications for 45L, property/use tests for cost segregation).
  • Documentation — We assemble support (workpapers, narratives, certifications, engineering schedules) aligned to IRS requirements.
  • File & Defend — We prepare filing deliverables and provide audit‑ready defense through appeals if needed.

Why Choose Archer Lewis

Partner with tax experts who care about your success. We treat you
like a neighbor, not a number.

A dedicated team

Your tax needs won't get shuffled around — you'll work with the same expert
team every time.

A human-centered approach

Your taxes deserve better than AI and overseas teams — we provide real, local expertise for your business.

Strategic financial planning

Tax prep is just the beginning — we’re here to help with your complete financial needs.

Local expertise, national resources

You get a local accountant's personal touch, plus our powerful national network.

Archer Lewis has helped 150,000+ businesses with their finances. See what we can do for yours.

"They treat everyone who walks in the door like they're their most important customer. As a business owner, they provide me with sound business advice and complete our taxes in a timely fashion. I highly recommend."

Hayley R.

"Running a business, independent contracts, solar credits, rentals, and more; I was in over my head. They helped me get everything done on time and saved me more money than they charged! Talk about a no brainer."

Ben S.

"I've had my taxes done here for years, and they always do a very thorough job and answer all my questions. Office staff are helpful and friendly, too."

Lorraine K.

"I have found them to be professional and conscientious at all times. They are helpful with suggestions on ways to streamline our accounting practices and save money. I have referred friends to them for tax help and assistance with financial review and planning for the future."

Jody A.

"We both work full time in the corporate world, have a primary residence, rental income/expenses, investments, and a fun little side business. They truly are the experts no matter what you bring to the table. I highly recommend this firm!"

Missy G.

"They did an excellent job and were fast as well. I was very pleased with their knowledge and attention to detail. The entire staff made me feel like I was their most important customer."

Ron S.

Explore Our Other Services

Archer Lewis is more than just a tax preparation service provider. We offer a full range of financial solutions to help your business succeed.

Archer Lewis also provides specialized tax preparation services for high-net-worth individuals. Many of our clients rely on us to handle their business and personal tax needs, ensuring seamless coordination and simplicity.

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Have questions about R&D, 45L, or Cost Segregation? Our credits and incentives team can help you evaluate eligibility and next steps.

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Credits and Incentives FAQs

Answers to your questions about working with us

Who qualifies for the R&D Tax Credit?

Companies developing or improving products, processes, software, formulas, or prototypes may qualify if their work involves technical uncertainty and a process of experimentation. Qualifying expenses often include wages for technical staff, supplies used in development, and certain contractor costs.

What documents are needed for an R&D study?

Project lists and descriptions, time tracking or reasonable allocations, design notes, test results, software repos, and cost detail. We help build audit‑ready narratives and workpapers.

What is the Section 45L Energy‑Efficient Homes Credit?

A federal income tax credit for eligible single‑family and multifamily dwelling units that meet defined energy‑efficiency standards. Eligibility requires certification by a qualified rater using IRS‑approved software, plus supporting documentation.

What does a cost segregation study involve?

An engineering‑based analysis of building components to identify assets eligible for shorter recovery periods. We review drawings, construction and closing records, and site details to develop reclassification schedules and tax workpapers.

How are fees structured?

We scope a fixed‑fee engagement based on complexity and include documentation and audit support. For R&D, we can provide an upfront estimate of benefit and credit usability.

When should we start?

The sooner the better—eligibility and timing rules apply. We recommend starting with a quick feasibility call to align on programs, records, and deadlines.