Business Rates reductions and relief

Hardship relief

Sometimes there are exceptional circumstance where we can reduce or remit the amount of Non-Domestic Rates you pay if you would suffer hardship if we don't and it is the best interests of our Council Tax payers. This is in accordance with Section 49 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988.

Who can apply for hardship relief?

We can award hardship relief to any ratepayer.

How is the decision made?

We treat all applications on their own merit and will consider several factors before making our decision including:

  • your current circumstances,
  • why you need hardship relief
  • the 'interests' of our council tax payers. We consider the community financial interests and employment prospects.

You must provide evidence of your hardship to support your application. This must include a copy of your last three year's audited accounts or trading accounts, but may also include bank statements and cash flow statements or any other evidence you think is relevant to your application.

Requests must be made in writing to the Business Rates Team at Cherwell District Council, Bodicote House, White Post Road, Bodicote, Banbury OX15 4AA.