SEIS and EIS support

Essentials › Accounting › SEIS and EIS support

Finance operationsUnited Kingdom

The problem it solves

Angel investors increasingly expect a company to qualify for SEIS or EIS before they invest, because the tax reliefs reduce their risk. The rules are detailed, and a mistake in the timing of share issues, the type of shares or how the money is used can cost investors their relief.

What it covers

  • Checking the company, its trade and its plans against the scheme rules
  • Preparing advance assurance applications
  • Advice on the order and timing of share issues
  • Filing SEIS1 or EIS1 compliance statements
  • Issuing compliance certificates so investors can claim
  • Monitoring so the company stays qualifying

Who it is for

Start-ups and growing UK companies raising money from individual investors, from a first angel round onwards.

Good to know in the UK

  • SEIS gives investors 50% income tax relief and EIS gives 30%, alongside capital gains benefits, provided the shares are held for at least three years.
  • Advance assurance from HMRC is optional, but most investors expect it.
  • From 6 April 2026, the EIS limits rose to £10 million a year and £24 million in total (£20 million and £40 million for knowledge-intensive companies), and the gross assets limit rose to £30 million before a share issue.

Questions to ask a provider

  • Have you handled advance assurance for companies like ours?
  • Will you work with our lawyers on the share issues?
  • Will you file the compliance statements after the round?

This is a plain-English summary for United Kingdom businesses. It is general information, not financial, tax or legal advice, and rules change: facts last checked 8 November 2026. Speak to a qualified adviser about your own situation.