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We’ve released our game. Can we still claim VGTR on post-release costs?

catherine • April 11, 2025
Catherine Davis, VGTR Specialists
catherine
April 11, 2025

Yes, you can.



But you’ll need to be very careful what you’re claiming for.

There’s a common misconception that once your game is released, you’re no longer eligible for VGTR. That’s not the case, but you need to tread carefully with the costs being claimed.


Here’s what you can’t claim for after launch:

🚫 Maintenance or support
🚫 Bug fixes, patches, or community management
🚫 Marketing / PR
🚫 Revenue share with platforms
🚫 Hosting, server, or operational costs
🚫 Depreciation or loan interest
🚫 Any costs not directly linked to core game development


So what can you claim?


✅ New content like DLC or expansions- this might qualify as a new production phase potentially requiring a new BFI Certificate.  Best to discuss this with the BFI as early as possible to seek their view.

✅ Costs must relate to actual development: design, coding, art, audio, QA, etc.

Careful cost tracking is essential here. 


If you’re planning post-release content, VGTR might still be on the table, but you might need to treat it as a new project from a claim perspective.


Don’t forget: When your game is complete, you must apply for a Final Certificate from the BFI - here’s the link to the application process: https://www.bfi.org.uk/apply-british-certification-expenditure-credits.



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