What is Council Tax?
Council Tax is a form of local taxation, based on occupation and or ownership of domestic property, levied by local councils.
It is calculated by adding together amounts needed by the County of Ceredigion, the Dyfed Powys Police Authority and Town and Community Councils. The money collected, from more than 30,000 households, together with Government grants, is used to provide a wide range of services.
Ceredigion County Council provides many services including education, social services, libraries, highway maintenance, street lighting, building control, planning and economic development, concessionary travel, passenger transport, cemeteries, trading standards, waste management, council housing, homelessness assistance, leisure centres, parks, playgrounds, car parks, markets, housing benefit, health and safety, food hygiene, information centres, pest control and other related services. The tax, which is 50% property based and 50% personal based, is imposed on all homes and flats within the authority's boundaries, and is based on the assumption that 2 adults occupy each property. However, if only one adult occupies the property, a 25% discount may be available. While Council Tax can also be payable in respect of unoccupied properties, certain exemptions may apply.
The Housing (Wales) Act 2014 allowed Billing Authorities in Wales to raise a Premium of up to 100% from 01/04/2015 in respect of sections 12A and 12B. Ceredigion did not raise a Premium between 01/04/2015 and 31/03/2017. On 01/04/2017 a premium of 25% was introduced for both classes.
Changes to the Legislation allowed Council Tax to be increased to 400% (100% Council Tax and 300% premium) from 01/04/2023.
Please note changes to Council Tax Premiums from 01/04/2024 on our Council Tax Premium on Long Term Empty Property or Second Home page.