3 myths about tax benefits that are preventing your company from growing

In the Portuguese business ecosystem, a worrying discrepancy persists between the tax benefit opportunities available and their effective utilisation by organisations. Often, what prevents their use is not a lack of investment or innovation, but a set of ingrained myths that condition companies' vision.

Demystifying these preconceived ideas is the first step to ensuring that your company is not unnecessarily giving up vital resources for its growth.

The Myth of Size: "Tax Benefits are only for large companies"

This is, perhaps, the most common myth and the one that most penalises the national business fabric. Reality demonstrates that instruments like SIFIDE or RFAI are transversal and, in many aspects, even more impactful for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).

Contrary to what many companies still believe, the incentive for innovation does not require high-tech laboratories or complex research departments. Many SMEs perform R&D activities informally when solving technical problems, optimising manufacturing processes, or developing new products for market niches. Ignoring these activities because one considers oneself "too small" is a strategic error that leaves precious capital on the table, capital that could be reinvested in modernising the structure itself.

The Myth of Complexity and Risk: "The process is too bureaucratic"

There is a perception that access to tax benefits entails an unbearable bureaucratic burden and a high risk of audit. Although documentary rigour is a necessary requirement, complexity should not be a factor of paralysis. In the case of RFAI and ICE, the benefit is processed autonomously in the annual income declaration, requiring only a well-structured tax dossier.

"The real risk does not lie in using the benefit, but in its poor preparation. It is here that partnership with specialists becomes a security asset."

A well-managed process not only minimises internal administrative effort but also guarantees full compliance before the Tax Authority and the National Innovation Agency, transforming a fear into a secure competitive advantage.

The Myth of Exclusivity: "If I already have Financial Incentives, I cannot have Tax Benefits"

Many managers believe that direct support (such as Portugal 2030 or RRP funds) prevents the use of tax benefits. The truth is that these mechanisms are often cumulative. It is perfectly possible, and advisable, to boost an investment through a financial incentive system and, simultaneously, take advantage of the tax credit on the portion of the investment not covered by the funds. This intelligent overlapping of support is what defines excellence in financial management and maximises return on investment.

Difference between cost and investment

The myths surrounding taxation in Portugal function as an invisible tax on ignorance. Companies that choose to see beyond these prejudices are the ones that manage to transform Corporate Income Tax (IRC) into productive investment.

Holding onto old paradigms about complexity or eligibility is a luxury that the current market does not allow.

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Last update: 13/01/2026