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The R&D and ERC Tax Credits are two of the most valuable
incentives available to growing businesses, but they’re also
among the most scrutinized by the IRS. Complex documentation requirements and high-dollar claims make these programs frequent audit targets.
Harbor Shield partners with approved top-tier tax firms to embed audit defense directly into their credit filing services. That means employers gain the combined protection of seasoned tax attorneys and Harbor Shield’s contractual guarantee: Legal costs covered full statutory representation and no surprise fees.
With Harbor Shield, businesses can innovate and grow with peace of mind, knowing their R&D and ERC credits are fully protected under the same Section 125-compliant framework that safeguards their broader benefits strategy.
R&D claims are complex and often flagged for
further review.
IRS has years to challenge your filings, long after you’ve claimed the credit.
An audit without coverage can mean tens of thousands in attorney fees.
Up to $50,000 in attorney fees per filing.
Direct access to specialists with R&D audit experience.
Documentation guidance and audit-ready checklists.
Protection for both IRS and state-level audits tied to R&D filings.
Transparent, fixed-cost protection with bundle options.
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Innovative Businesses → Tech, manufacturing and service firms claiming R&D credits.
CPAs and R&D Tax Firms → Add insured audit defense to strengthen client trust.
Partners and Advisors → Expand your offerings with embedded R&D audit coverage.
There’s no such thing as “Audit insurance” for tax credits. Harbor Shield is the first of its kind: A contractual guarantee that covers the real costs of defending your R&D tax credit if the IRS comes calling. Unlike traditional E&O insurance (which only protects the preparer if they made a mistake), Harbor Shield protects you, the business, from day one.
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Pays up to $50,000 per occurrence, per covered filing, in legal defense costs.
Provides direct access to seasoned tax attorneys with proven experience in R&D audit defense.
Delivered exclusively through approved tax firms, pairing their credit expertise with Harbor Shield’s protection.
Locks in fixed, predictable costs. No exclusions, no hidden fees.
Harbor Shield is not an insurance company. Coverage is delivered through contractual guarantees, backed fully by insurance.
Explore All Coverage Options
Harbor Shield activates immediately. You’ll be connected with a vetted IRS audit attorney who
specializes in R&D audits. You hire them directly, keeping your privilege intact while Harbor Shield covers their invoices up to your guarantee limit.
Coverage lasts through the full IRS audit window, which can extend several years beyond your
original filing.
Pricing is based on the scope of your R&D claims and is structured to be predictable, typically
around 5% of the covered legal defense guarantee. Bundle discounts are available for multiple years or filings.
IRS audits are routine. Legal bills don’t have to be. Harbor Shield gives you protection, monitoring, and expert defense for ERC, R&D, MEC and FICA Tip credits.
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