Business rates - multiplier

To calculate a business rates bill, the rateable value is multiplied by the national multiplier. This is set by Central Government each year.

For the financial year 2011/12 it is £0.433 pence in the pound.

Therefore, if your rateable value is £20,000 your business rates bill would be £8,660.

Small business rate relief multiplier

Small businesses whose rateable value is less than £18,000 and who qualify for small business rate relief are charged rates using a lower multiplier.

For 2011/12 the lower multiplier is £0.426 pence in the pound.

Therefore, if you qualify for small business rate relief and your rateable value is £12,000, your rates bill would be £5,112.