New calculation for business rates
On 26 November 2025, the Chancellor announced new multipliers that all billing authorities must use to work out Business Rates.
From 1 April 2026, businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors will have their bills calculated using a lower multiplier. This means these businesses will pay a reduced bill.
The following multipliers will be used to calculate your Business Rates bill:
| Multiplier | From 1 April 2026 | Applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Small business retail, hospitality and leisure (RHL) multiplier | 38.2p | RHL hereditaments with a rateable value (RV) below £51,000 |
| Standard retail, hospitality and leisure (RHL) multiplier | 43p | RHL hereditaments with an RV from £51,000 to £499,999 |
| National small business multiplier | 43.2p | Non-RHL hereditaments with an RV below £51,000 |
| National standard multiplier | 48p | Non-RHL hereditaments with an RV from £51,000 to £499,999 |
| High-value multiplier | 50.8p | All hereditaments with an RV of £500,000 or more |
Check if your business qualifies
You can check whether your business is classed as retail, hospitality or leisure by reading the official GOV.UK guidance on business rates multipliers for qualifying retail, hospitality or leisure properties.
Apply for the lower multiplier
If you think your business meets the criteria, complete our online form:
You should still complete the form if your business is classed as retail, hospitality or leisure, even if you do not currently pay business rates.
Last updated 28 January 2026