The Brazilian Federal Government is currently evaluating the possibility of advancing the payment of the 13th salary for retirees and pensioners of the National Institute of Social Security (INSS) in 2025. This measure, which has been adopted in recent years to stimulate the economy, could see the first installment of the 13th salary released as early as April or May, depending on the final decision from the Ministry of Social Security and a presidential decree.
In 2023 and 2024, the first installment was paid in the first half of the year, allowing many beneficiaries to better manage their finances. If the government confirms this advance for 2025, millions of INSS retirees and pensioners will benefit significantly. According to estimates, the anticipation of the 13th salary could inject approximately R$ 70 billion into the economy, providing a much-needed boost to consumer spending and local businesses.
Only insured persons who receive specific benefits are entitled to the 13th salary. This includes retirees due to age, contribution time, or disability, as well as pensioners from death benefits and those receiving sickness benefits, accident allowances, and imprisonment assistance. However, beneficiaries of the Continuous Cash Benefit (BPC/Loas) are not eligible for this annual bonus.
Should the government proceed with the advance, the first payment is expected to be made between April and May 2025, with the second installment following between June and July. This aligns with previous years' practices, where payments were made ahead of the traditional schedule that typically occurs in the second half of the year.
The anticipation of the 13th salary is seen as a strategic move by the government to inject liquidity into the economy and support the population amid ongoing fiscal adjustments. In February 2025 alone, the INSS disbursed R$ 82.2 billion in benefits to over 40 million people, highlighting the scale of the program.
Rodrigo de Assis, an economist at the Porto Alegre Traders Union, noted that the anticipation of the 13th salary could amount to R$ 827.3 million in payments to retirees and pensioners in Porto Alegre alone. With approximately 388,800 beneficiaries in the capital, the average payment is expected to be R$ 2,127.94, divided into two installments.
The Ministry of Social Security, led by Carlos Lupi, has indicated that the final decision regarding the advance will depend on a technical evaluation and a presidential decree. The anticipated payments would not only provide immediate financial relief to retirees but also serve as a tool for the government to recover its popularity amid declining approval ratings. By offering financial support to vulnerable populations, the government hopes to bolster public confidence in its management.
Historically, the 13th salary payments were traditionally made in the second semester, with disbursements occurring in November and December. However, since 2020, in response to the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the government has shifted to advance these payments to the first half of the year. This has allowed beneficiaries to better manage their finances during critical periods.
In recent years, the government has successfully implemented this advance payment strategy, with the first installment being distributed in April and the second in May for 2020, 2021, and 2022. In 2023, payments were made in May and June, while in 2024, the advance was reinstated.
Economists have pointed out that the 13th salary has a strong multiplier effect on the economy, with beneficiaries typically using these funds to pay off debts, purchase groceries and medications, and make small investments. This influx of cash is expected to stimulate local commerce and improve overall economic activity.
The advance of the 13th salary does not represent an additional expense for the government, as the funds are already allocated within the annual budget of the INSS. However, it does require careful financial planning to ensure that this early disbursement does not compromise other fiscal priorities, such as public investments and social transfers.
As the government weighs this decision, beneficiaries are encouraged to stay informed about their eligibility and payment schedules. They can consult the official channels, including the Meu INSS website and the INSS Central 135, to verify their benefits and ensure they are prepared for any changes.
In conclusion, while the anticipation of the 13th salary for 2025 remains under consideration, its potential impact on the economy and the lives of millions of retirees and pensioners cannot be understated. As discussions continue, stakeholders await the final decision from the government, which is expected to be revealed in the coming weeks.
