Problems paying your business rates?

We are here to help you and if you are finding it difficult to pay your Business Rates you should contact a member of staff on 0300 100 1800 to discuss your payment options.

Staff will be able to check whether you are entitled to any reduction in your Business Rates which may help reduce your payments.

If you are finding it difficult to get the payments to us on time you should consider paying by one of the following methods:

• Direct Debit - this will ensure your payment reach us on time every month.  If you want to pay by this method you need to complete and return the Direct Debit form sent with your bill, or alternatively download the Direct Debit form
• Standing Order - details of when payments are due and amounts are on your bill
• Telephone Banking - available daily except between 5.30pm and 5.45pm 
• Internet Payments. - available daily at a time that suits you
• Also from 1st March 2011 you can pay at Post Offices and shops and outlets which display the Paypoint and Payzone logos

What if I don't pay?

If you don't make payments by the due dates, the Council may take legal action against you.
We recommend that you pay your rates bill by Direct Debit, this ensures payments are met on time and you have peace of mind.

Legal action

The Council can take legal proceedings for recovery of the total amount due (after serving a notice requiring payment of that balance within 14 days). If this happens the Sheriff will grant a Summary Warrant against you. This means you will have to pay a 10% surcharge on the Rates outstanding and a Sheriff Officer will recover the arrears, in other words can arrest your wages, bank accounts etc.

We don't want to have to bring any action against you. If you are having problems paying, please contact Customer Services.