The right choice depends on claim size, technical complexity, and how much founder time you can invest.
| Feature | DIY with SimplifiedClaim | Traditional consultant |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Predictable flat fee per fiscal year | Often 20–30% of refund (contingency) |
| Time investment | Moderate — guided wizard + document upload | Low — consultant drives the process |
| Audit defensibility | Strong when narratives match CRA five-question framework | Strong with experienced practitioners |
| Speed to file | Days to weeks depending on document readiness | Weeks to months depending on firm capacity |
| Best for | Tech founders comfortable with their own technical story | Large claims or teams with limited internal bandwidth |
Many startups start with DIY software for smaller first claims, then add advisory for complex or high-value years. SimplifiedClaim supports both paths.
Start your claimStart with a free readiness score, or talk to a consultant about your project and fiscal year.