Pilot Model

The IRS has proposed regulations to amend the definition of “research and experimental procedures” in order to clarify the treatment of amounts paid or incurred in connection with the development of tangible property, including pilot models.

Research and experimental expenditures are those that are paid or incurred in connection with your trade or business that represent research and experimental (development) costs in the “experimental or laboratory sense.” Expenditures are research and development costs in the “experimental or laboratory sense” if they are for activities undertaken to eliminate uncertainty concerning the development or improvement of the product. Generally, all costs incident to the development or improvement of a product (pilot model, process, formula, invention, technique, patent, or similar property) are considered research and experimental procedures.