The Bolsa Família program, now integrated with Auxílio Brasil, has been one of the main income transfer policies in Brazil, helping millions of families overcome poverty and extreme poverty. With constant changes in legislation and the economy, many people wonder about eligibility for the program, especially those with formal employment contracts. 

Understanding the Bolsa Família Program

Bolsa Família, now part of the Auxílio Brasil program, is intended for families living in poverty and extreme poverty. The program aims to guarantee these families the right to food and access to education and healthcare. To determine eligibility, the government uses criteria such as per capita family income and family composition.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for Bolsa Família in 2024, your family must meet the following criteria:

  • Per capita family income: The family's per capita income (per person) must be within the limits established by the program. In general, families with a per capita income of up to R$$ 89.00 are considered to be in extreme poverty, and those with a per capita income between R$$ 89.01 and R$$ 178.00 are considered to be in poverty, provided they have children or adolescents aged 0 to 17.
  • Single Registry: To be a beneficiary, your family must be registered in the Single Registry for Social Programs of the Federal Government, CadÚnico, and keep your data updated.
Image: Reproduction

Signed Employment Contract and Bolsa Família

Many people wonder whether being employed with a formal contract automatically excludes the possibility of receiving Bolsa Família. The answer isn't so simple and depends on several factors:

  • Total Family Income: The most important factor is the family's total income. If, even with one or more members working formally, the family's per capita income falls within the program limits, the family may be eligible.
  • Number of Dependents: A family with many dependents may have a per capita income that meets the program criteria, even if one of the members has a formal employment contract.
  • Updating your CadÚnico: Keeping your Cadastro Único up to date is crucial. Changes in family composition, income, or address must be reported to avoid being disqualified from the program.

How to Apply for Bolsa Família

If you believe your family meets the Bolsa Família eligibility criteria, follow the steps below to apply for the benefit:

  • Check Eligibility: Check if your per capita household income falls within the program limits.
  • Register with CadÚnico: If you are not yet registered, look for the Social Assistance Reference Center (CRAS) closest to your home to register.
  • Update Your Data: Always keep your CadÚnico registration up to date, especially if there are significant changes in income or family composition.
  • Wait for Selection: The federal government selects beneficiaries based on CadÚnico data. If your family is selected, you'll receive a card to withdraw the benefit.

It is not an impediment

Having a formal employment contract doesn't automatically preclude you from receiving Bolsa Família in 2024, but everything will depend on your family's per capita income and adherence to the program's criteria. It's essential to keep your CadÚnico up to date and regularly check your eligibility. Bolsa Família is an important tool for social and economic inclusion, and understanding its criteria is the first step to accessing this right.

Remember, policies and criteria may change, so it's always a good idea to check the latest information with official agencies or on the Ministry of Citizenship website. Inclusion in Bolsa Família represents not only financial assistance but also the opportunity to access basic rights that promote dignity and the possibility of a better future for beneficiary families.

See also: The Impact of Technological Trends on the Economy: Opportunities and Challenges for Entrepreneurs and Investors

March 1, 2024