Don’t miss out on rate relief, businesses told

Last year over 1,500 Harrow firms claimed and saved over £1.4m from their business rates. However, more than double that number could be eligible and missing the chance to trim thousands of pounds off their annual business rate bills. 

Harrow Council is sending out a fresh call to the borough's business leaders to check if they are eligible and make sure they are claiming. 

A business can claim rate relief if they occupy one main property and have a total rateable value below £25,500. If your rateable value is below £6,000 you could get 100% rate relief and pay nothing at all until September 2012. Above that value and up to £12,000, rate relief is calculated on a sliding scale. If your rateable value is over £12,000 you still get a reduction by paying on a lower multiplier.  

Husband and wife Ashok and Nalini Bharakda own Ashley Nathoo & Co, a chartered accountants company in High Road, Harrow Weald. Ashok said: 

"Like any business owner I jump at the chance to cut my outgoings and claiming rate relief is one of the quickest and simplest ways. 

"We have been claiming for four years and currently we save around £1,400 a year, so it certainly makes a difference. 

"It is my business to advise clients on their finances and rate relief is a real no-brainer. If you are not claiming, get in touch with the Council and find out how you can benefit." 

Cllr Keith Ferry, portfolio holder for planning and economic development on Harrow Council, said: 

"We know it is a tough trading environment for businesses in Harrow and promoting small business rate relief is one of the ways the Council is supporting local firms. 

"It is a quick and easy way to trim thousands of pounds off your bills, so get in touch with us today to find out more." 

Visit http://www.harrow.gov.uk//sbr to download a form or call 020 8901 2610. You may also want to register for MyHarrow Account which gives you access to your rates bill 24/7.