Changes to business rates multipliers from 2026

From April 2026, the UK Government will introduce five new business rates multipliers.

How we’re preparing

We’re reviewing our property database to determine which multiplier applies to each business. We’ll contact some ratepayers to request more information where needed.

These changes are part of wider reforms to create a fairer, more modern system that supports investment and protects the high street.

You may have received a letter from us asking for more information.

Complete the Small Business Rate Relief review form

What is changing?

The current system uses two multipliers based on property rateable value:

  1. Small business multiplier: for properties with a rateable value (RV) below £51,000
  2. Standard multiplier: for properties with an RV of £51,000 and above

More details on the current multipliers can be found on our business rateable value page.

From April 2026, the system will expand to five multipliers. These will reflect both business type and property value.

New multipliers

The Autumn Budget confirmed the Non-Domestic Rating Multipliers for 2026/27 will be as follows:

  1. Small business RHL multiplier: 38.2p
  2. Small business non-domestic rating multiplier: 43.2p
  3. Standard RHL multiplier: 43.0p
  4. Standard non-domestic rating multiplier: 48.0p
  5. High-value non-domestic rating multiplier: 50.8p

Why these changes matter?

The new system is designed to support local businesses and ensure fairer contributions from larger operations:

  • Support for the high street: The new RHL multipliers will replace the annual RHL relief, giving eligible businesses long-term certainty
  • Fairer contributions: A higher multiplier for large properties ensures major distribution centres and online retailers contribute proportionately

Legislative safeguards

The Non-Domestic Rating (Multipliers and Private Schools) Bill will limit how much the new multipliers can differ from current rates:

  • The large property multiplier can’t exceed the standard multiplier by more than 10p
  • The RHL multipliers can’t be more than 20p lower than the small business multiplier

How you can prepare

You can take the following steps to get ready for the new system: