Information about a new scheme to help those eligible pay their Council Tax, build savings, and improve their finances.
Contents
About the scheme
The pilot scheme provides interest-free repayment plans that are agreed between a Council Taxpayer and a Credit Union.
This is not the only help available if you are struggling to pay your Council Tax. You can contact your local council to check if you’re eligible for a discount, exemption or reduction.
More help including debt advice is available from organisations such as Citizens Advice Cymru.
Pilot scheme areas
The Pilot Council Tax Debt Rescue Scheme is available in some areas of Wales from 1 May 2025.
This scheme is only available if you live in the Merthyr Tydfil, Newport and Blaenau Gwent local authority areas.
If you don’t live in the participating areas, and you still need help with Council Tax arrears, please contact your local council as soon as you can. It’s always better to reach out for help as early as possible when your circumstances change, as there may be help available to you.
Eligibility
If you live in a participating area and you have Council Tax arrears, find out more about the scheme by getting in touch with or calling into a participating Credit Union:
- Merthyr Tydfil: Merthyr Credit Union.
- Newport: Smart Money Cymru Community Bank.
- Blaenau Gwent: either Merthyr Credit Union or Smart Money Cymru Community Bank.
They will assess your eligibility for the scheme taking into account your individual financial circumstances.
Credit Unions are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
You can also contact your local council who can signpost you to the details, and help you with any other Council Tax queries.