The minimum wage in 2025 is already a topic of great interest to millions of Brazilians. After all, it directly impacts the budgets of workers, retirees, and various social programs in the country. Knowing the updated value and the changes expected is essential for organizing finances and understanding the economic landscape.

What will the minimum wage be in 2025?

The minimum wage in 2025 was adjusted to R$ 1,391.00. This increase is the result of a calculation that considers inflation as measured by the National Consumer Price Index (INPC) and, in some cases, the growth of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from two years prior.

This policy of increasing the minimum wage aims to ensure that it maintains the purchasing power of the population, especially in a scenario of rising prices for essential goods such as food and transportation.

But what does this mean in everyday life? The increase, although it may seem small, makes a difference for those living on a tight budget. However, it's important to understand that, even with the adjustment, the basic income still has limitations in terms of meeting all the needs of a Brazilian family.

How is the minimum wage adjusted?

The adjustment of the minimum wage in Brazil follows specific criteria. The government uses a formula that combines two main factors:

1# InflationThe INPC measures price variations and aims to protect the purchasing power of the minimum wage against rising market costs.

2# Economic growthIn previous years, GDP growth was included as a second element in the formula. In 2025, the adjustment considered the economic growth rates of 2023.

This readjustment policy has generated discussions. While some defend the current formula as fair, others believe it should be revised to provide a greater real gain for workers.

Who benefits from the minimum wage?

The minimum wage doesn't only affect formal workers. It has a much broader reach, benefiting different groups in society. Here are some examples:

1# Formal workersMillions of Brazilians with formal employment contracts receive at least the minimum wage.

2# Retirees and pensionersINSS beneficiaries who receive the minimum pension have their payments linked to the minimum wage.

3# Beneficiaries of social programsBenefits such as the Continuous Payment Benefit (BPC) are also linked to the minimum wage.

This relationship between the minimum wage and other payments is essential to guarantee a basic livelihood for many Brazilians. Any change in the amount directly affects these groups.

Changes planned for 2025

In addition to the adjustment in value, the 2025 minimum wage brought some important changes that deserve attention:

1# New valuation policyThe government has resumed the policy of considering economic growth as part of the minimum wage calculation. This means that, in addition to adjusting for inflation, there is a possibility of real gains for workers.

2# Impact on the INSS (Brazilian National Social Security Institute) and social programs.Since the minimum wage is used as the basis for INSS (Brazilian National Social Security Institute) benefits and social programs, the adjustment implies an automatic increase in the amounts paid. For example, retirement pensions and benefits with the minimum social security amount will also become R$1,391.00.

3# Pressure on companiesThe increase in the minimum wage represents a challenge for companies, especially small and medium-sized ones, which need to adjust their payrolls. This change can have repercussions on the economy as a whole, whether in prices or in the hiring of labor.

These changes show how the readjustment goes beyond a simple number. It has effects on the entire economy, both positive and challenging.

Is the minimum wage enough to live on in Brazil?

Despite the adjustment, the minimum wage is still far from sufficient to cover all living costs in Brazil. According to the Inter-Union Department of Statistics and Socioeconomic Studies (DIEESE), the ideal amount to meet the basic needs of a family would be higher than R$ 6,000.00.

This means that the minimum wage covers only a small portion of expenses, such as:

1# Power Supply
2# Transport
3# Housing
4# Education

This reality forces many families to resort to extra jobs, loans, or even social programs to supplement their income. The discussion about raising the minimum wage is important, but it also needs to be aligned with policies that combat inequality.

What can we expect from the future?

The minimum wage will always be a central issue for the Brazilian economy. The increase in 2025 brought some relief, but challenges remain before it is truly sufficient. The pressure for public policies that improve quality of life and reduce inequality must continue.

As a citizen, it's essential to keep up with these changes and understand how they affect your daily life. The minimum wage is more than just a monetary value: it reflects the social and economic conditions of Brazil.

See also: Bolsa do Povo: Everything You Need to Know About the Program and How to Access It

January 27, 2025