Hardship ReliefThe Northern Ireland Executive started a comprehensive review of Rating Policy in 2000 to reform the existing rating system. A key issue from the review was the introduction of a Hardship Relief Scheme for businesses. Legislation was subsequently passed in March 2004, (The Rates (Amendment) (NI) Order 2004), which introduced a power for the Department to introduce a Hardship Relief Scheme. Hardship Relief for non domestic properties came into operation on 31 December 2005. It is intended to assist a business to recover from a temporary crisis, financial or otherwise, as a result of exceptional circumstances, and therefore some form of recovery plan will generally be required before rates can be remitted. An information leaflet (opens in new window PDF 231 KB) on the Hardship Relief Scheme is available A Hardship Relief Application Pack (opens in new window PDF 326 KB) including guidance notes and application form is available. Policy guidance on Hardship Relief for the Non-Domestic Sector (opens in new window PDF 194 KB) is also available For more information please contact:- Land and Property Services To email the Hardship Relief Team hardshiprelief.rating@lpsni.gov.uk (opens in new window) To phone the Hardship Relief Team ring 02890 - 252719 To fax the Hardship Relief Team - 02890 - 252639 Rating Policy Division website (external link) opens in new window |
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