The Council has a duty to collect and recover Business Rates (also known as National Non-domestic Rates) from occupiers and owners of business premises. This is the way that those who occupy business premises contribute towards the cost of local services.
What happens to the money collected?
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The rates are pooled by central government and redistributed to local authorities according to the number of people living in the area.;
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The money together with revenue from Council Tax payers, Revenue Support Grant provided by the Government and certain other sums, is used to pay for the services provided by Gateshead Council and other local authorities in your area.
Where can I find out more information about rating?
On-line business rates information can be found at on the Business Link| Website.
This is the official government website for businesses of all sizes. This site acts as a one-stop shop for businesses.
Increase in level of Small Business Rate Relief
The Budget Announcement Letter| has important news that could benefit your business. The Government is introducing a temporary increase in the level of Small Business Rate Relief (SBRR) available to eligible businesses. These changes will come into effect in October 2010. Meanwhile, you should ensure that you continue to pay your existing business rates bill.