If you are struggling to pay your bill?

Contact your local council to discuss what options are available to you.

The bill is calculated and collected by your local council based on the rateable value the VOA has set on the property. The ability to pay the bill is not a valid reason to appeal against the rateable value of the property and any appeal on these grounds will be invalid.

If you think your rateable value is too high, you can appeal against it. Look at the reasons for appealing and tell us why you think your rateable value is too high.

If you do decide to appeal against your rateable value, you must continue to pay your bill. If you are having problems with payment, contact your local council to discuss payment options.

You may be able to apply for rate relief

There are several rate relief schemes available which may reduce the bill you have received. These reliefs are administered by your local council.

• You may be eligible for small business rate relief, if your rateable value is below a certain level. The system for this varies in England and Wales.
• You may be eligible for hardship relief from your local council. This is discretionary and will depend on your circumstances.