Small Business Rate Relief Grants

A number of local businesses have asked me if I know anything more about the Small Business Rate Relief Grants of £10,000 recently announced by the Chancellor.

I only have access to the same information as everyone else, but the Government's website appears to have a little more detail on it today, as below. Key takeaways are: it is £10,000 for eligible businesses (not "up to"), there is no need to apply (but I'd watch for communication from your Council) and the money should be available from some time in early April...

Support for businesses that pay little or no business rates

The government will provide additional funding for local authorities to support small businesses that already pay little or no business rates because of small business rate relief (SBBR). This will provide a one-off grant of £10,000 to businesses currently eligible for SBRR or rural rate relief, to help meet their ongoing business costs.

Eligibility

If your business is eligible for SBRR or rural rate relief, you will be contacted by your local authority. You do not need to apply.

How to access the scheme

Funding for the scheme will be provided to local authorities by government in early April. Guidance for local authorities on the scheme will be provided shortly.

Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19/covid-19-support-for-businesses