You are obligated to amortize any research and experimental costs that fall under the broader definition of R&E as per Section 174, irrespective of whether you claim the R&D tax credit under Section 41. The two sections operate independently; therefore, even if a taxpayer discontinues claiming the tax credits under Section 41, they cannot avoid the requirement for amortization under Section 174. Due to the increase in tax liability resulting from this amortization, claiming the R&D tax credit can serve as a way to offset some of this additional financial burden.