The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) is urging businesses to protect themselves from rogue business rates agents. New rateable values for business properties came into effect in April 2023. Councils used these new values to calculate business rates bills.
Businesses can challenge their valuation if they think it’s incorrect. They can use a rating agent to do this. Some rogue agents submit inaccurate information, which can result in penalties or increased rates bills. Be cautious of anyone who guarantees they can secure big business rates reductions.
See: Be wary of rogue business rates agents - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
From October 2025, businesses that fall under the UK’s Extended Producer Responsibility for packaging (pEPR) scheme will receive their first invoices, covering the period from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026.
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has launched proposals that could see the £100 limit on contactless card payments raised - or even removed altogether. If agreed, shoppers may soon be able to pay for larger supermarket trips or restaurant bills with just a tap, without needing to enter a PIN.