Yes, Bolsa Família benefits can be canceled, and this happens when the beneficiary no longer meets the program's requirements. The main reason for cancellation is the family's income exceeding the permitted limit.
However, there are other reasons that can lead to the loss of benefits, such as outdated information in the Single Registry or failure to meet the conditions.
What are the main reasons for the cancellation of Bolsa Família?
Several factors can lead to the cancellation of Bolsa Família benefits. Some are automatic, while others depend on audits and registration review. Here are the main ones:
1. Increase in family income
The Bolsa Família program is intended for families living in poverty or extreme poverty. If the per capita income exceeds the limit of R$ 218 per person, the family may lose the benefit.
2. Outdated data in the Single Registry
The government requires beneficiaries to update their information every two years or whenever there are changes in family composition, such as births, deaths, or changes of address. Failure to do so may result in the benefit being suspended and subsequently canceled.
3. Failure to comply with the conditions.
To continue receiving Bolsa Família benefits, families must follow certain rules, such as:
- Children and adolescents between the ages of 4 and 17 must be enrolled in school and have a minimum attendance of 60% (for 4 and 5 year olds) and 75% (for 6 to 17 year olds);
- Pregnant women should have prenatal care;
- Children under 7 years old need to have their vaccination record up to date;
- Women between the ages of 14 and 44 must undergo health monitoring. If these obligations are not met, the benefit may be blocked and, if the situation persists, it may be canceled.
4. Inconsistent information
If false or inconsistent information is identified in the Single Registry, the benefit may be canceled. This can happen, for example, if the family omits sources of income or fails to report a significant change in their economic situation.
5. Government Review
The government conducts periodic audits to verify that benefits are being paid correctly. If there is any indication of irregularity, Bolsa Família may be suspended or canceled.
How to avoid cancellation?
Avoiding the cancellation of Bolsa Família benefits requires constant attention and monitoring. Here are some essential tips:
- Keep the Single Registry updatedWhenever there is a change in income, family composition, or address, inform the nearest CRAS (Social Assistance Reference Center).
- Fulfill the requirements.Ensure that children are in school, monitor family health, and keep vaccinations up to date.
- Track the status of your benefit.The Bolsa Família app and the CadÚnico portal are useful for checking for any outstanding issues.
What to do if Bolsa Família is canceled?
If your benefit was canceled and you believe it was a mistake, contact the CRAS (Social Assistance Reference Center) or your city hall. In some cases, it's possible to appeal and reverse the situation. Bring your documents and explain what happened to try to regularize your registration.
If the cancellation occurred due to an increase in income, the family can check if they are entitled to a guaranteed reinstatement. This mechanism allows families who lost the benefit due to improved income to receive it again if their financial situation worsens again within up to 24 months.
Furthermore, it's always important to keep track of changes to the program's rules. The government may adjust the requirements and eligibility criteria, so stay tuned for official announcements. This way, you avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure access to this essential support.
The Bolsa Família program is an important right for millions of Brazilians, but to maintain it, it's essential to pay attention to the rules. If you follow all the requirements, you'll rarely have problems with cancellation. Stay informed and ensure your benefit!
See also: Can Bolsa Família be judicially blocked due to debt?
February 10, 2025
Graduated in Literature – Portuguese/English, and creator of the website Successful Writer, seeks to expand everyone's knowledge with relevant information on a variety of topics, as a writer. At Vaga de Emprego RJ, she provides opportunities and tips on the job market.