With Rate demands currently dropping through the letter box the Isle of Man Council of Voluntary Organisations has taken the opportunity of reminding charities that they are not generally speaking liable to pay domestic rates on any property they own or occupy. There is however a liability to pay water rates.

“We are aware”, the Council says, “that on occasions charitable organisations have paid rates for which they are not liable generally through a lack of awareness.

Local authorities will invoice charities for rates as they may not be aware of your charitable status or of the fact that the whole or part of the building is occupied for charitable purposes. It is usual for the authority to require an Exemption Form to be completed on an annual basis to confirm the status of the occupant.

So if you are a charitable organization, including faith organisations, and you receive a rate demand contact your local authority”.

ENDS