Advance assurance
SEIS and EIS advance assurance. The confirmation most angel investors won't invest without.
Investments are risky, someone is taking a gamble with their money. So it’s not surprising that investors look for any upsides that may counter the risks.
The Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) and the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) are government-approved incentives, based on reducing an investors tax burden – which encourages them to invest in early-stage, high-risk businesses, which may otherwise be over looked. Obtaining advanced assurance can further reassure investors by confirming a company’s eligibility upfront.
For more information of the SEIS and EIS scheme conditions and benefits, see our guides about Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme and Enterprise Investment Scheme.
Which creatives need advance assurance?
Advance assurance is HMRC’s indication, given before you raise, that your company and the proposed share issue are likely to qualify for SEIS or EIS relief.
It isn’t legally binding, but the overwhelming majority of angel investors treat it as a precondition for investing, because it removes their uncertainty about whether they’ll actually get the tax relief they’re relying on.
WallsMan Creative prepares and submits SEIS and EIS advance assurance applications for UK creative startups.
Startups about to approach angel investors: If your investors want SEIS or EIS relief (and most sophisticated angels do) advance assurance is close to a precondition for a smooth raise.
Founders who’ve had informal interest and need the application in progress before the conversation gets concrete.
Companies unsure whether they qualify: Some creative business models sit close to the eligibility boundary, and it’s worth knowing before you build a raise around an assumption.
Frequently Asked Questions about advance assurance
Advance Assurance is an HMRC process where your business gets pre-approval that it likely qualifies for schemes like EIS or SEIS before you start raising investment.
Investors favour companies with Advance Assurance because it reduces their perceived risk and speeds up investment decisions.
Companies eligible for EIS/SEIS – typically small, independent, trading businesses – can apply; we assess your circumstances to confirm eligibility before applying.
Havving HMRC's pre-approval increases investor confidence and can make it easier to secure funding.
We can provide approved documentation and guidance you can share with prospective investors to support their due diligence.
We'll review HMRC's feedback, advise on next steps, and can revise and resubmit the application if appropriate.
It isn't mandatory, but it's highly recommended because it simplifies investor due diligence and strengthens your pitch.