NEWS

Local authority grants for small businesses

According to recent news reports local councils still have funds to distribute to small businesses affected by the coronavirus outbreak and are trying all they can to make sure eligible businesses apply.

Here is a reminder about how to claim for the small business grant funds (SBGF) and retail, hospitality & leisure grant funds (RHLGF).

Eligibility

Both grants are linked to the rateable value of your business premises. In order to qualify you must fall into one of the two categories below:

• You have a property that was eligible for small business rates relief (SBRR), including those eligible for tapered relief (as of 11 March 2020) or rural rates relief (RRR)
• You are eligible at 11 March for receipt of the expanded retail discount (which covers retail, hospitality & leisure) with property/properties with a rateable value of below £51,000

Note: the grant is awarded per property so if you have two (or more) properties with a rateable value below £51,000 you are entitled to two (or more) grants. You cannot receive both SBGF and RHLG on the same property

How to claim

The initial guidance stated that local authorities would contact (in writing) all eligible businesses in their area. However, if you have not heard do not assume you are not eligible as some may be inviting applications.

To see if you are eligible read the guidance

If you do not know who your local authority/authorities are then use this search tool.

What you'll need when making a claim:

• Your business rates account number
• Your property address and business name
• An electronic copy or image of your latest business rates bill and business bank details.

Please let us know if we can help or if you have any questions regarding the above.

27/04/2020