Finances

Bolsa Família is Brazil’s main income transfer program designed to reduce poverty. It provides a Bolsa Família cash transfer for low-income families across the country.  The Federal Government adapted the program to consider family composition and living conditions.  This guide explains how the program functions, who is eligible, and what support is offered. What Is Bolsa Família? Bolsa Família is a social program that delivers monthly income support to low-income households. It was created to fight hunger and poverty in Brazil.  The program also … Read more

The Pé-de-Meia Program provides financial support to public high school students across Brazil.  This benefit helps low-income families keep their children in school through monthly incentives.  It is part of a broader national strategy to reduce school dropout and support youth development. Here’s how you can qualify and access this important program. What Is Pé-de-Meia? Pé-de-Meia is a government initiative created by Law No. 14,818, enacted on January 16, 2024. It provides financial incentives for students enrolled in public high schools to encourage academic … Read more

The ID Jovem program allows low-income young Brazilians to access cultural events and affordable travel.  Through the ID Jovem youth discount and free transport benefit, users can participate in activities that were once financially out of reach.  It promotes inclusion, supports youth development, and ensures equal access to public services. This article explains who qualifies, what the card offers, and how to get it. What Is ID Jovem? ID Jovem is a national program under the Youth Statute, managed by the federal government. Its … Read more

If you’re a formal worker in Brazil, the FGTS loan is one way to access quick credit. It allows you to use your FGTS balance to get up to R$10,000 in advance.  The process is easy, fast, and doesn’t require a traditional credit check. In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to apply confidently. What Is FGTS and How It Works? FGTS stands for Fundo de Garantia do Tempo de Serviço, a mandatory benefit for formal workers in Brazil.  Employers deposit 8% of … Read more

Unemployment insurance, or “seguro-desemprego,” is a benefit that offers temporary financial support to workers who are laid off without cause.  It plays a critical role in Brazil by helping individuals support themselves and their families during a transition period.  This assistance gives workers time to find new employment opportunities. Understanding the rules, application process, and eligibility is essential. What Is Unemployment Insurance in Brazil? This benefit ensures temporary income to eligible individuals while they search for a new job. It is a right guaranteed … Read more

Auxílio Gás is a social program designed to help low-income families in Brazil afford cooking gas. It provides financial assistance every two months to support the purchase of a 13kg gas cylinder.  The program is part of the government’s strategy to reduce the impact of inflation on vulnerable groups. This guide explains everything you need to know about the benefit. What Is the Auxílio Gás Program? Auxílio Gás offers financial support to help pay for household cooking gas. The program is aimed at families … Read more

The Minha Casa Minha Vida (MCMV) program is Brazil’s largest affordable housing initiative. It was created to offer homeownership opportunities to low- and middle-income families.  The program reduces inequality by helping families own their homes through subsidies and financing.  This article explains who can benefit from the program, how it works, and what changes were introduced in recent updates. What Is Minha Casa Minha Vida? The MCMV program was launched by the Brazilian government in 2009. It aims to make housing accessible through public … Read more

Access to electricity is essential for every household, especially those with limited income. The Social Electricity Tariff is a public policy designed to reduce the energy burden on vulnerable families.  This initiative allows eligible consumers to receive discounts on their electricity bills based on consumption.  Understanding how this benefit works is essential to make sure you or your family can take full advantage of it. What Is the Social Electricity Tariff? The Social Electricity Tariff is a government-mandated program that grants electricity discounts to … Read more

he PIS/Pasep salary bonus is a key financial aid for Brazilian workers. It offers eligible citizens a yearly amount based on months worked in the previous year.  Managed by Caixa and Banco do Brasil, this bonus supports income redistribution. This guide explains everything you need to understand, claim, and benefit from the program. What Is the PIS/Pasep Salary Bonus? The PIS/Pasep salary bonus is a government benefit linked to employment. It is funded by the Fundo de Amparo ao Trabalhador (FAT), aimed at supporting … Read more

The BPC/LOAS benefit supports low-income seniors and people with disabilities in Brazil. It guarantees a monthly income equivalent to one minimum wage.  This benefit does not require prior contributions to the INSS. Many families rely on it for dignity and survival. What Is BPC/LOAS? BPC (Benefício de Prestação Continuada) is part of the Organic Law of Social Assistance (LOAS). It is a social right provided to the most vulnerable. People eligible for BPC receive a monthly amount equivalent to one minimum wage. The benefit … Read more