If paying your rates would put your business in real difficulty, your council can reduce or cancel the bill. It's rare, and you'll need to show your figures.
Worth: Council's discretion
Apply to your council's business rates team with evidence of your finances. Get free advice from Business Debtline first so your application is strong.
Run by Your council · Last checked 14 Oct 2026
Since April 2026, shops, cafés, pubs, restaurants and salons pay a permanently lower business rates multiplier. It should already be on your bill.
Worth: 5p in the pound less than other businesses: 38.2p (rateable value under £51,000) or 43.0p (£51,000 to £499,999)
Usually paid automatically
Nothing to apply for. Your council works it out and shows the multiplier on your 2026/27 bill. If your bill shows 43.2p or 48.0p and you think you qualify, ask your council's business rates team to review it.
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/business-rates-multipliers-qualifying-retail-hospitality-or-leisure
Run by Your council, under national rules · Last checked 14 Oct 2026
New for 2026/27: pubs and live music venues get 15% off their business rates bill, on top of the lower multiplier.
Worth: 15% off your 2026/27 business rates bill, frozen in real terms for the two years after
Usually paid automatically
Your council should apply it. Check your 2026/27 bill and contact the business rates team if it's missing.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/pubs-and-live-music-venues-relief
Run by Your council, under national rules · Last checked 14 Oct 2026
If your only premises has a rateable value under £15,000, you can get up to 100% off your business rates. Many small businesses never claim it.
Worth: 100% off if the rateable value is £12,000 or less, tapering to nothing at £15,000
Apply to your council's business rates team. It isn't automatic. Tell them if you take on another property or your premises becomes empty.
Run by Your council · Last checked 14 Oct 2026
Every relief, from Small Business Rate Relief to hardship help, goes through your council's business rates team. They can also check your bill is right after the 2026 revaluation.
Worth: Free
Use your council's business rates page. Contact details are on your council page on this site.
Run by Your council · Last checked 14 Oct 2026
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