Application Process
6.1. Business rate payments remain legally due and payable in accordance with the most recent bill until such time as any rate relief is awarded. The rate relief will usually be awarded by means of a reduction shown on the business rate bill issued to the ratepayer. Where this puts the account in credit for the year, a refund will be made at that time.
6.2. With the exception of hardship relief and discretionary relief awarded under section 69 of the Localism Act 2012, everyone receiving rate relief at the time will be sent a renewal application form before the start of each financial year. A completed application form must be returned to the Council if relief is to continue.
6.3. New ratepayers occupying a property part way through a financial year should apply at the time they move in. Wherever possible, applications for discretionary rate relief should be made within the financial year for which the relief is being sought. Backdating of applications for discretionary relief will be restricted to the 1 st of April of the previous financial year from the date the application was received..
6.4. All applicants are required to complete the Council’s rate relief application form. Such information and evidence as the Council requires must be provided to support an application and in the event that the requested information and evidence is not provided the application may be refused.
