Rate bills for the 2026/27 financial year began issuing on Wednesday in Northern Ireland. Delivery will continue through the month.

Funds from rate collection support public services such as health, education and infrastructure. They also cover council services including waste collection, leisure centres, local economic projects and tourism.

Bills include the yearly rates calculation, details of any rate relief awarded and arrears carried forward. They show the payment due date and amount.

A Department of Finance spokesperson stated that ratepayers can access their bills online from April 1 through a Rates Online account. The service allows secure payments, updates to details and checks on reliefs.

Ratepayers can report incorrect details via Rates Online. Application-based relief schemes exist, including rate rebate for Universal Credit recipients and discounts for pensioners over 70 living alone.

Businesses can access rate support schemes. Domestic ratepayers qualify for a four percent discount by paying the full 2026/27 bill by May 8. Direct Debit offers monthly instalment payments.

Those unable to pay should contact LPS for support and alternative options.