With the 2009 Budget showing little help for companies, many businesses are failing to realise that they can apply for tax credits that could help them with most of the costs of research and development, according to accountancy firm Saffery Champness. The tax credits are to help encourage companies to invest more money and time in research and development to promote innovation but the accountancy firm says that not all businesses are taking advantage of the support. However, there are a few standards which companies must comply with in order to receive the tax credits. Businesses have to show that its research includes innovation and creativity in science and technology and is associated with the activities of the business. Simon Kite, a partner at Saffery Champness said: 'Companies may not realise they are eligible for tax credits, even if their research fails. They can claim for employing staff for R & D and for all materials used in their specific project'.