HMRC SEIS & EIS Advance Assurance Application Checklist
Step-by-step document schedule, eligibility rules, and assessor compliance items needed before submitting your application to HM Revenue & Customs (UK).
HMRC SEIS & EIS Advance Assurance — Official Application Checklist
Provider: HM Revenue & Customs (UK) • Region: GB • Generated via Startup Preflight
1. Entity & Geographic Eligibility
Registered business base in the United Kingdom
Assessor MandatoryMust operate with commercial premises or trading address registered within the jurisdiction of HM Revenue & Customs (UK).
Headcount under 25 full-time staff
Assessor MandatoryOfficial enterprise limit of fewer than 25 employees (including active founder-directors).
Trading history under 36 months
Assessor MandatoryMust be within early-stage establishment window (less than 36 months since commencement of commercial sales or incorporation).
2. Required Assessor Document Pack
UK permanent establishment (UK registered LTD or UK branch)
Assessor MandatoryEnsure this item is fully drafted, proofread, and signed off prior to submitting the formal application.
Trading for less than 3 years for SEIS (less than 7 years for EIS)
Ensure this item is fully drafted, proofread, and signed off prior to submitting the formal application.
Gross assets under £350,000 before investment and fewer than 25 employees
Ensure this item is fully drafted, proofread, and signed off prior to submitting the formal application.
Must provide details of at least one named prospective angel investor
Ensure this item is fully drafted, proofread, and signed off prior to submitting the formal application.
Risk-to-Capital condition: clear commercial growth plan with genuine capital risk
Ensure this item is fully drafted, proofread, and signed off prior to submitting the formal application.
3. Procurement & 3-Quote Rules
Itemised supplier cost breakdown & scope specifications
Clear written supplier proposals detailing scope of work, deliverables, timeline, and professional fees.
4. Budget & Matching Funds Verification
Proof of 50% matching founder funds in bank account
Assessor MandatoryBecause HMRC SEIS & EIS Advance Assurance provides a 50% grant rate, you must verify access to the remaining 50% co-funding in your bank statement.
Zero retrospective expenditure prior to formal approval
Assessor MandatoryEnsure no deposits, invoices, or purchase orders have been signed or paid before receiving the formal Letter of Offer.
Assessor Timing & Retrospective Warning
Not a cash grant—unlocks up to 50% tax relief for UK angel investors. Requires a named prospective investor and a Risk-to-Capital statement.