Think about this: you're taking that dream trip or visiting family far away, using a new payment method: your FGTS balance. It may seem unusual, but that's exactly what's new. Azul Airlines brought to further democratize air travel in Brazil. Since June 2024, Azul has become the first airline in the country to offer the option of paying for tickets through the FGTS (Unemployment Fund), an innovative and accessible initiative.
Let's understand how this new feature works, the steps required to use it, and the benefits it can bring. Get ready to get your questions answered and plan your next trip in a practical and smart way!
How does paying for tickets with FGTS work?
The ability to use FGTS balances to purchase airline tickets is the result of a partnership between Azul and Banco Digio, which acts as a financial intermediary. This option is linked to the FGTS Anniversary Withdrawal—a method of annually withdrawing a portion of the fund's balance.
The process was designed to be simple and accessible to anyone who has signed up for Saque-Aniversário. Purchases are made exclusively through the Azul app, ensuring speed and security. Below, check out a practical guide to taking advantage of this feature:
Step by step guide to buying tickets with FGTS
1# Joining the Anniversary Withdrawal
If you haven't yet signed up for the FGTS Anniversary Withdrawal option, this is the first step. You can sign up through the official FGTS app, provided by Caixa Econômica Federal. Simply log in with your credentials, select the "Anniversary Withdrawal" option, and follow the instructions to activate the service. Important: By opting for this option, you forgo receiving the full FGTS amount in the event of unfair dismissal, but you remain entitled to other benefits.
2# Authorizing Digio Bank
After activate Anniversary Withdrawal, you'll need to authorize Banco Digio to access your balance information. This step is also performed through the FGTS app. In the "Authorize Banks" menu, select Digio as your partner institution and complete the authorization. This process is essential for the bank to be able to mediate the payment transaction.
3# Access the Azul app
Make sure the Azul app is updated on your smartphone. Within the app, select the desired flights and proceed to the payment step. You'll find the "Payment with FGTS" option available. Click it to proceed.
4# Request and analysis
When you choose to pay with FGTS, the system will send an authorization request to Caixa Econômica Federal. The request may take up to 24 hours to review. During this period, you'll receive updates via email or through the Azul app.
5# Payment confirmation
After Caixa's approval, payment is processed automatically. You'll receive confirmation via email, along with your booking details. Now, just pack your bags and enjoy your trip!
6# Alternatives in case of refusals
If your FGTS payment is declined by Caixa, you have 12 hours to make the purchase using another payment method, such as credit card or Pix. After this period, the reservation is automatically canceled.
Benefits of this modality
Using your FGTS (Fund for Severance Indemnity Fund) to pay for airline tickets is a creative and advantageous solution, especially for those who want to leverage their unused balance for a more immediate and practical purpose. The main benefits include:
- Ease of access: The entire process is digital, eliminating the need for in-person travel or bureaucracy.
- More affordable travel: It democratizes air travel, allowing more people to fly within Brazil or abroad.
- Financial flexibility: The FGTS balance, which is generally used in specific situations, can now have a more versatile use.
Points of attention
Despite the advantages, it is important to be aware of some aspects before opting for this modality:
- FGTS Commitment: The amount used for payment will no longer be available for other purposes, such as purchasing property.
- Joining the Anniversary Withdrawal: This option implies giving up the full withdrawal in the event of dismissal.
- Analysis process: In some cases, the approval timeframe can create uncertainty, especially for last-minute travel.
An innovation in the Brazilian air market
Azul's initiative to allow ticket payments with FGTS (Unemployment Fund for Severance Indemnity Fund) is a major innovation in the Brazilian airline market. Besides making travel more affordable, it offers an interesting alternative for using FGTS funds, which often sit idle for years.
If you want to take advantage of this new feature, follow the step-by-step instructions in this article and plan your next trip more easily. After all, the opportunity to fly comfortably and affordably is just a click away. How about getting started right now? Enjoy your trip!
See also: How do I enable anniversary withdrawals in the FGTS app?
December 11, 2024
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.