Back in Business rate support
The Back in Business scheme offers businesses a 50% rates discount for up to two years if they occupy a vacant retail unit.
The Back in Business rate support scheme has been created to encourage business ratepayers to consider occupying empty retail premises when looking for a business property.
Eligibility
To benefit from the scheme, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- you have begun occupation of business premises on or after 1 April 2024
- the business premises you now occupy were previously unoccupied for a minimum of 12 months prior to the date you occupied the property
- the business premises were previously valued for rates and used for retail purposes; or
- if premises were never occupied, you may still be entitled if the premises could reasonably have been used for retail purposes.
Rates discount
The rates discount of 50% is granted for up to 24 months beginning on the day on which the retail unit becomes occupied. The rate relief can be applied from 1 April 2024.
How to apply
The scheme is open for applications until Wednesday 31 March 2027.
You need to complete an online application form. If you are the owner or occupier of the applicant business premises, you can complete this at the link below:
Apply for Back in Business rate support
Further information
For more information, contact Land & Property Services (LPS):
- Email backinbusiness@finance-ni.gov.uk
- Tel 0300 200 7801 (charged at local rate) and ask for Back in Business rate support