Cedula (Community Tax Certificate): How to Get One?

If you have ever had to apply for a job, get a government ID, or register a new business in the Philippines, someone has probably asked you for your cedula.  

While it sounds a bit old-school, this simple piece of paper remains a super important document for daily transactions.

If you are starting your very first job or launching your dream business, this guide will break down everything you need to know about getting your community tax certificate! 

Before we jump into the steps, let's look at the meaning of cedula.

Officially known as a community tax certificate, a cedula is a document issued to Filipino citizens who pay their local community tax.

Historically, it dates back to the Spanish era, but today, its modern cedula meaning is much simpler: it serves as basic proof of your residency in a city or municipality, an additional form of identification, and a declaration of your annual income.  

A valid community tax certificate is often required for notarized documents and various government and legal transactions. 

Getting your certificate is incredibly easy, but you still need to bring a few things to make sure your application goes smoothly! Here are the basic cedula requirements you need to gather before heading out:

• A Valid Government-Issued ID: This can be your Passport, Driver’s License, Postal ID, or Student ID.
• Proof of Income (For Employed Individuals): Some LGUs may ask for supporting documents such as a recent payslip or BIR Form 2316 to verify income.
• Completed Application Form: Often called the Community Tax Declaration Form (CTDF), which is provided for free at the venue.

For business owners, the cedula requirements will also include your approved business tax declaration or previous year's gross receipts to calculate your business community tax. 

Now, where to get cedula?

Generally, the most common answer to where to get cedula is your local City Hall or Municipal Hall (specifically, the Treasurer's Office). However, you also have a few other options depending on where you live:

• Your Barangay Hall: Many barangays are authorized to issue a community tax certificate to make it easier for residents.
• Mall Satellite Offices: Larger cities often open up satellite payment centers in malls to help citizens avoid the long lines at City Hall.
• Online LGU Portals: Some LGUs offer online or digital application and payment services. Check with your local government unit to see if this option is available. 

Ready to make your move? Here is exactly how to get cedula in just a few minutes. Following these quick steps will save you tons of time:

1. Visit the Issuing Office: Head over to your chosen location—whether it’s your Barangay Hall, local City Hall, or municipal office.
2. Fill Out the Declaration Form: Grab a copy of the Community Tax Declaration Form. Fill out your personal details accurately, including your gross annual income if you are employed.

3. Present Your ID and Pay the Fees: Submit your form alongside your valid ID and proof of income. The officer will compute your tax.

   The basic tax is only ₱5.00, plus an additional ₱1.00 for every ₱1,000 of your gross annual earnings from the previous year.

4. Sign and Affix Your Thumbprint: Once printed, you will be asked to sign your name and place your right thumbprint on the designated boxes of the community tax certificate. 

Now that your community tax certificate and valid IDs are sorted, why not use them to treat yourself or upgrade your setup?  

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