what can I do , if I can not afford to pay business rates?

Answer 1

You didn't explane so it is not possible to answer.

Answer 2

Phone your council - they almost always have a hardship grant system and may be able to help.
Don't just leave it and not pay as they will pursue you.

There are a number of different schemes they can operate to help you either waiving some of the rates or allowing you longer to pay.

This is especially true in areas where they don't want to lose the business - after al lhaving business is good for an area as it means employment and or shops etc
i know of an occasion where the only shop in a small village was given 80% discount on their rates as they were able to prove that they would go out of business without this concession and the villagers petitioned the council to keep the shop

The main thing is that you should speak to them and explain your position and how you intend to trade your way out of it

also be aware of the fact that the local councils *collect* the rates, but they don't set the rate, and don't keep the money themselves - it gets passed to central government.
so don't have a go at THEM about how high the rates are - they can't help that!

you may also want to consider appealing your rateable value - though this is a long process but could bring down your rates bill if successful

another thought
contact your local business link as they may be able to help you improve your business income and make your business successful enough to pay
as well as gving advice on business rates reliefs
http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/bdotg/action/home

http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/bdotg/action/layer?topicId=1074019801&tc=000KW022107112

Answer 3

Get yourself a very good financial advisor.... well worth the effort.

Answer 4

make ur query clear. Though my advice is sell your house.