The Unified Registry (CadÚnico) is the government's main tool for identifying low-income families and ensuring access to various social programs, such as Bolsa Família, Auxílio Gás, and the Social Energy Tariff. However, many people still have questions about the need for updating their information and the consequences of not doing so. If you depend on any benefit linked to CadÚnico, keep reading and find out what happens if your data is not up-to-date.

What is the Unified Registry and why is it important?

The Unified Registry is a federal government database that gathers information about low-income families in Brazil. Based on this information, various benefits are granted to help reduce social inequalities.

Among the main programs that use the Unified Registry (CadÚnico) for beneficiary selection are:

  • Family Allowance;
  • Gas Assistance;
  • Social Electricity Tariff;
  • My Home My Life;
  • Continuous Benefit Payment (BPC);
  • Happy Child Program;
  • Senior Citizen's Card.

If you are part of any of these programs or wish to enroll in the future, keeping your information updated in the Cadastro Único (Single Registry) is essential to ensure you receive the benefits.

Who needs to update their Single Registry?

The CadÚnico (Single Registry for Social Programs) must be updated every two years, Even if there are no changes in family composition or income. Furthermore, updating is mandatory whenever there is any change in the data, such as:

  • Change of address;
  • Change in family income;
  • Entry or exit of family members;
  • Changing schools for children or teenagers;
  • Change of municipality.

If you fall into any of these situations, it is essential to contact the nearest CRAS (Social Assistance Reference Center) to update your information and avoid losing benefits.

What happens if you don't update your Single Registry?

If your family's information is out of date, you may face some serious consequences, such as:

1# Blocking of benefits – Programs such as Bolsa Família and Tarifa Social may be suspended until the situation is regularized. 2# Cancellation of benefits – After a blocking period, if the update is not made, the benefit may be permanently cancelled. 3# New registrations are prohibited. – If you need to enroll in a new social program, you may be prevented from doing so due to outdated information. 4# Difficulty in proving income and family situation. The Unified Registry (CadÚnico) serves as proof of eligibility to access other government assistance programs.

If you receive any benefits, it is essential to check your status regularly and update your information whenever necessary.

How do I update my Single Registry?

Updating your Single Registry (Cadastro Único) is a simple process, but it requires the presence of the family head at the CRAS (Social Assistance Reference Center) in your city. Here's how to proceed:

1# Gather the necessary documents. – Bring your ID, CPF (Brazilian tax identification number), proof of address, birth or marriage certificates of family members, work permit (if applicable), and proof of income. 2# Go to the nearest CRAS (Social Assistance Reference Center). – Contact the Social Assistance Reference Center in your city to update your registration. 3# Confirm the information with the interviewer. – A CRAS agent will conduct the interview to update or correct your information. 4# Track the status of your registration. – After the update, periodically check the status of your registration through the app. My CadÚnico or through the federal government website.

The update is free and essential to continue receiving social benefits without interruption.

How can I check the status of my Single Registry (Cadastro Único)?

If you are unsure whether you need to update your registration, you can check your status through the following channels:

  • My Single Registry Application Available for Android and iOS, it allows you to check your data and whether updates are needed.
  • Single Registry website The information can be obtained through the official website of the federal government.
  • Services at the CRAS (Social Assistance Reference Center) If you are having difficulties, go to a CRAS service center and request verification of your information.

Keeping your registration up-to-date is the best way to avoid surprises and ensure you continue to have access to government social programs.

A formality

Updating your Single Registry (Cadastro Único) is not just a formality, but an essential step to continue receiving social benefits. If your information is outdated, you risk having your benefit blocked or even canceled.

If it has been more than two years since the last update or if there have been changes in your family, contact the nearest CRAS (Social Assistance Reference Center) as soon as possible. Don't leave it until the last minute and ensure your family continues to have access to the assistance that makes a difference in everyday life!

See also: Can Bolsa Família be judicially blocked due to debt?

March 2, 2025