Licensees still missing out on rates relief

That’s the advice from Jim Yarwood, head of ratings at Fleurets, who believes that there are “still a few people” who are entitled to the relief, but are not receiving it.

The Government said in the Budget that it has temporarily doubled the level of relief available. Between 1 October 2010 and 31 March 2013, eligible ratepayers can receive 100% relief on properties with an RV below £6,000 (rather than 50%). For properties with an RV between £6,000 and £12,000, the relief is tapered from 100% to 0%.
For those with more than one property, the discount is only available if the RV of each of the other properties is below £2,600.

However, if a licensee occupies a property with an RV below £18,000 (£25,500 in London) and is not receiving a different mandatory relief, they could be eligible to have their bill calculated using the small business multiplier, regardless of the number of properties they occupy.

Yarwood said: “Most people have wised up about small business rate relief, but there are still a few people who are not getting it even though they should be.

“It is worth reminding people about what they are entitled to.

“They (those not receiving it) could try to backdate the relief they have missed out on, and they should do that through their local authority, over the phone. If it’s a form you have to fill in, it will be pretty simple. Check how far your local authority is willing to backdate payments.

“This is a simple way for licensees to ensure they’re saving money.”