The information on this page is presented in the format of frequently asked questions. Please click a question from the index below to see the appropriate answer.
What are non domestic rates/business rates?
Non domestic rates/business rates are taxes payable on all business assessments listed on the valuation list for this borough, produced by the valuation office in Reading. This tax is a contribution towards all council services and is not payable in respect of any individual service offered by the council.
How do I register for business rates?
By completing a new occupier form which can be obtained by contacting the business rates office on 01753 875307/8 or emailing brates@slough.gov.uk
How can I pay my non domestic rates / business rates bill?
Payments can be made by the following methods, quoting your account reference number which can be found on your bill:
What is the balance of my Business Rates account?
Details of your outstanding balance are available from the Business Rates Office on 01753 875307/8.What is the rateable value of a specific property?
Each business rate property is allocated a rateable value by the Valuation Office.How do I obtain bank payment GIRO slips for paying my Non Domestic Rates/Business Rates?
Bank Payment Giro slips can be obtained by contacting the Business Rates Office on 01753 875307/8 or by e-mailing brates@slough.gov.uk. Always quote your account reference in such correspondence.
I have business premises that I wish to rent out. Who is liable for business rates?
The occupier is responsible for payment of business rates.
My business is a charity. Can I get a discount?
Yes, if you are a registered charity you will receive 80% mandatory relief, on request. Further relief can be considered, on a case by case basis, at the discretion of the council.
To apply you will need to complete a rate relief form. To obtain a form, please telephone 01753 875307/8 or email brates@slough.gov.uk.
My business is suffering financial hardship. What can I do to reduce my business rates payments?
The council has discretion to give relief in special circumstances. To discuss your specific circumstances, contact us on 01753 875307/8 or email brates@slough.gov.uk.
My business premises is empty. Can I get a discount?
Yes. On industrial premises, rates are fully exempt for the period the property is empty. For commercial premises 50% relief is applicable after the first 3 months of the premises being empty. In most circumstances, for the first 3 months, rates are exempt.
For further clarification, contact the business rRates office on 01753 875307/8 or email brates@slough.gov.uk.
How is the money I pay for business rates spent?
The money received is paid to central government and the council receives a contribution for administering the scheme. This contribution is used as part of the council funding of all services.
How can I find out what Business Rates are payable on a business property in Slough?
Rates payable are in respect of a specific property, to obtain the amount payable on a particular property, contact the Business Rates Office on 01753 875307/8.
How can I appeal against my rateable value?
All appeals must be made directly to the Valuation Office. They can be contacted on 0118 980 4800, or by submitting an appeal form available on the Valuation Office's website.
I am having difficulty paying my Business Rates. Can I make an arrangement?
Arrangements facilities can be available in certain circumstances. To discuss your specific circumstances, contact the Business Rates Office on 01753 875307/8 or by e-mailing brates@slough.gov.ukI am only using part of my premises. Is there any relief available on my business rates?
Where a property is partly occupied for a short period the council has discretion to award relief.
Full details can be obtained by contacting the business rates office on 01753 875307/8 or by emailing brates@slough.gov.uk.
If the partial occupation is considered permanent then you should contact the Valuation Office on 0118 980 4800 or email mailto:emailreadinggroup.vo@voa.gsi.gov.uk to request if it is possible to split the property. This would result in empty property relief being available for the unoccupied part.
I run my business from home. Do I have to pay Non Domestic Rates/Business Rates?
Not unless you have modified a section of the property for operation for business purposes.Will I be charged for business rates if I work from home?
Not unless you structurally convert part of your house specifically for business use. For further information, contact the business rates office on 01753 875307/8 or email brates@slough.gov.uk
Why have I received a National Domestic Rates Reminder/Final Notice/Summons?
Sufficient payment has not been received in accordance with the bill sent to you. To discuss your specific circumstances, contact the Business Rates Office on 01753 875307/8.For all enquiries please contact the Customer Service Centre
01753 475111
My Council
Landmark Place
High Street
Slough
opposite Slough Library
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