Your SMB's Hidden Cash: Unlock R&D Tax Credits

Brian Pearson is the President and CEO of American Benefits Exchange, a firm that designs and distributes insurance and annuity solutions for federal, military, and civil-service markets. In his role, he oversees agent recruitment, carrier relationships, and strategic growth. With nearly 30 years of experience in the insurance industry, Brian previously owned and operated Pearson & Associates, which specialized in servicing active-duty military members. In this episode… Most small- and medium-sized businesses focus on keeping up with tax deadlines, but few realize how much money they're leaving on the table. Misconceptions, overworked CPAs, and fear of audits cause many to miss out on tax credits and incentives designed to help them grow. How do you know which credits you qualify for? According to tax credit expert Brian Pearson, the answer lies in understanding the tax system. He notes that most accountants don't proactively bring credits to their clients and that changes in the law opened doors for small businesses — not just tech or pharmaceutical firms — to claim the R&D tax credit. Brian emphasizes the importance of documentation, preparation, and having a team ready to defend claims if needed. Proactive tax strategies can unlock growth, protect profits, and accelerate retirement planning. Welcome back to Destination Business Freedom as Pat Mancuso talks with Brian Pearson, President and CEO of American Benefits Exchange, about how tax credits fuel business growth. Brian explains why the 2026 tax deadline creates urgency for businesses, the culture of the accounting industry, and how to recover money through tax credits.