The Brazilian federal government is considering advancing the payment of the thirteenth salary for retirees and pensioners of the National Social Security Institute (INSS) in 2025. This anticipated move, announced by Rogério Ceron, the Secretary of the National Treasury, could see payments made in April and May, depending on the final decision from President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and his economic team.
According to Ceron, discussions are ongoing, with the government evaluating two possible payment windows: either between April and May or May and June. The final decision will depend on internal discussions and a presidential decree, which is expected to clarify the payment schedule and conditions.
The request for anticipation was made by the Ministry of Social Security, led by Carlos Lupi. This initiative is not just a financial relief for millions of retirees and pensioners but also a strategic move to stimulate the economy during a period of fiscal adjustments and uncertainties.
Since 2020, the advance of the thirteenth salary has become a common practice, aimed at injecting resources into the economy and alleviating the financial burdens of Brazilian families, especially during economically challenging times. In 2024, for instance, the government disbursed approximately R$ 67 billion to over 33 million beneficiaries, significantly boosting consumption across various sectors.
The thirteenth salary, established by Federal Law No. 4.090/62, is an annual bonus that applies to numerous segments of the population, including formal workers, public servants, domestic workers, and social security beneficiaries. Traditionally, this bonus is paid in two installments, with the bulk of payments occurring in the latter half of the year. However, the government has shifted this practice to the first half since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2025, the anticipated total value of the thirteenth salary is projected to reach approximately R$ 320 billion, an increase from R$ 300 billion in 2024. This increase is attributed to the rising minimum wage, which is set at R$ 1,518 starting January 2025. The payment structure remains the same, with the first installment typically constituting 50% of the total benefit and paid without income tax deductions.
Economists have noted that the advance of the thirteenth salary not only provides immediate financial relief for beneficiaries but also stimulates local economies, particularly in smaller cities where retirees constitute a significant portion of the population. In 2024, around 40% of the funds from the thirteenth salary were spent on essential goods and services, including food and clothing, while 30% was directed toward debt repayment.
The government’s strategy to advance the payment of the thirteenth salary is also seen as a political maneuver to bolster its popularity amid ongoing economic challenges. As the discussions progress, the Ministry of Social Security is expected to finalize its proposal, which will be subject to approval from the economic ministers and the president.
In 2024, the first installment of the thirteenth salary was distributed between April 24 and May 8, while the second installment was released between May 24 and June 7. This timeline is expected to be similar for 2025, with adjustments made to accommodate banking regulations and holidays.
Ceron emphasized the importance of careful planning in executing this payment, noting that it requires coordination with budgetary constraints and fiscal reports due in May. The government aims to balance stimulating the economy with maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Beneficiaries, including retirees and pensioners, are eagerly awaiting the announcement of the payment schedule, which is anticipated to be made in the coming weeks. Many are hopeful that the advance will help them manage expenses in the second half of the year, particularly as costs for essential goods and services continue to rise.
As the government prepares for this potential advance, it is crucial for beneficiaries to stay informed about their rights and the details surrounding the thirteenth salary. They can access information regarding payment dates and amounts through the Meu INSS application or by contacting the INSS hotline.
The anticipation of the thirteenth salary serves as a reminder of the critical role that such benefits play in supporting the financial stability of millions of Brazilians. With the government poised to make a decision soon, the economic implications of this measure could be significant, potentially providing much-needed relief during a time of financial uncertainty.
