Rates relief for firms

OLDHAM businesses can apply to Oldham Council to postpone payment of part of this year’s business rates bill thanks to a unique Government scheme.

The scheme, which went live at the end of July, means that:

All business ratepayers can apply to their local council to put off 3 per cent of their whole year’s 2009/2010 business rates bill.

Those businesses which accrued a rise in their bill because transitional relief has come to an end can now defer 60 per cent of the increase.

To make the most of this scheme ratepayers should apply as soon as possible, as once approved they will pay reduced instalments for the remainder of the financial year or until payment is complete.

Those businesses submitting an application in September can expect to see their bills reduced by October at the latest.

A simple, one-page application form is being sent to all businesses by their local councils, detailing how to apply for both these deferrals and small business rate relief.