Apply for the research allowance yourself or with an advisor?
Yes, you can apply for the research allowance (Forschungszulage) yourself. The first application is demanding, however, and often fails on the wording (“research language”) and the delineation of eligible activities. With advice the risk of rejection drops – and at Zulagenlotse you pay only on success (10%).
DIY vs. with Zulagenlotse
| Aspect | DIY | With Zulagenlotse |
|---|---|---|
| Time required | High – learning the criteria, portal and wording | Low – we handle the structuring and the drafting |
| Research language & evidence logic | Often underestimated – the most common reason for rejection | Core competence: wording in line with the review guidelines |
| Delineation risk (eligible/routine) | To be judged yourself | Sector-specific delineation included |
| Cost | Internal time only | 10% success-based – only when funding flows in |
| Risk in case of rejection | Time lost | No upfront risk; fee only on success |
| Handling follow-up queries | Short deadline, “only one attempt” | Prepared – a clean first draft lowers the risk |
Anyone applying themselves should know two things: research language instead of development language and the most common BSFZ reasons for rejection. The big-picture overview is in the guide.
Research allowance vs. grant funding
The research allowance works fundamentally differently from classic grant programmes (e.g. ZIM). The most important difference: the legal entitlement.
| Feature | Research allowance | Grant funding |
|---|---|---|
| Legal entitlement | Yes – when the criteria are met | No – discretionary / limited budgets |
| Time of application | Also retroactive (back to 2022) | Usually before the project starts |
| Technology-/sector-open | Yes | Often tied to a topic/programme |
| Payout | Tax credit/offset via the tax office | Direct grant in tranches |
| Reporting obligations | No interim/final reports to the BSFZ | Regular proof-of-use reports |
| Combinability | Combinable with other funding (no double funding of the same costs) | Depends on the programme |
How to recognise a reputable advisor
- Transparent, verifiable fee – no unproven success rates (“98%”).
- A genuine success basis with fair timing (fee only when funding flows in).
- Demonstrable sector and process expertise (review guidelines, Frascati criteria).
- Clear StBerG delineation: BSFZ certificate yes, tax advice via partners.
- Confidentiality and data protection assured by contract.
- An honest assessment, even when an application is not worth it.
Our promise
We deliberately don't advertise with success rates. Instead of promises you get an honest assessment – and pay only when the funding actually flows.
Free funding check See our fee modelFrequently asked questions about the comparison
Is support worth it for the first research allowance application?
The first application decides on the certificate – and is often rejected because of the wording. Support is worthwhile above all because with a follow-up query there is usually only one chance to improve. On a success basis you also carry no upfront risk.
How do I recognise a reputable research allowance advisor?
By verifiable statements instead of advertising rates, by a transparent, fair fee model, by demonstrable sector and evidence expertise, and by a clear StBerG delineation. A reputable advisor also tells you when an application is not worth it.
Is the research allowance a grant?
No. The research allowance is a tax incentive with a legal entitlement that is realised through the tax assessment – not a grant with a discretionary decision and reporting obligations.