What is it?
A scheme to allow certain ratepayers the ability to defer part of the increase
in business rates from 2008/09 to 2009/10.
3% of the 2009/10 charge can be deferred, with the deferred amount being payable
50% with the 2010/11 charge and 50% with 2011/12 rates.
Why has it come in to force?
By law the national rating multiplier is increased each year by the rise in the
retail price index as at the previous September
For the 2009/10 business rates the RPI percentage increase for September 2008
was 5%, leading to a 5% increase in the business rates.
However at the time when the increase took effect, April 2009, there was a negative
inflation rate. To actually reduce the 5% increase would have required legislation
and the related parliamentary time.
Who does it apply to?
Any current ratepayer who is not in arrears with their 2009/10 rates may apply
to take advantage of this scheme.
If a ratepayer has or does fall into arrears with their rates, to the extent
of receiving a final notice, then they will cease to qualify for the deferment
and the full 2009/10 rate becomes payable.
Also if a ratepayer moves out of a premises then they will no longer be entitled
to the benefit of the deferment. However if they move to a new premises they will
be entitled to defer the equivalent amount of their new rate liability
What happens next?
Walsall Council will write to all ratepayers, when the Government introduces
the final scheme, and invite applications to go onto the deferment scheme.
It is expected that this letter will be issued at the beginning of August, so
you need not do anything at the moment.
Contact Details
Telephone - 0845 111 2853; Email - businessrates@walsall.gov.uk; Fax - 01922 723337
In Person - Walsall Council First Stop Shop, Civic Centre, Darwall Street Walsall
