The Brazilian federal government is set to implement significant changes to the Cadastro Único (CadÚnico) beginning March 2025, aiming to modernize the system for distributing social benefits to millions of families across the nation.
The reforms, spearheaded by the Ministry of Social Development (MDS), will introduce several new components, including biometric identification for beneficiaries, complete digitalization of registration, and integration with other government databases. The ultimate goal is to increase efficiency, reduce fraud, and guarantee assistance reaches those who genuinely need it.
Among the most noteworthy advancements will be the implementation of biometric data collection, which includes both fingerprinting and facial recognition. This process is intended to prevent duplicate registrations or the use of fraudulent documentation for more targeted aid allocation. According to the government, "The implementation of biometrics is one of the most impactful measures of the reform of the program," as it offers heightened security and transparency.
Beneficiaries will begin receiving notifications for their biometric registrations from March 2025 onward. The registration process will be executed progressively, with priority being placed on areas reporting outdated registrations. This new approach not only aims to reconcile records but also to eliminate undeserving beneficiaries who may have previously exploited loopholes within the system.
The planned digitalization of the CadÚnico allows beneficiaries to update their personal details through mobile applications, sparing them the hassle of traveling to byzantine bureaucratic centers known as Centers of Reference for Social Assistance (CRAS). The broader use of technology is expected to expedite the registration process as well as reduce the average time for receiving benefits, which currently sits at around 30 days. "The new model also aims to facilitate the updating of registration through applications, allowing beneficiaries to make changes to their records without the need to travel," as detailed by sources.
Another significant aspect of the reform will be the training of approximately 40,000 CadÚnico operators. This workforce will be adept at managing the new biometric procedures, mitigating fraud risks, and ensuring criteria for eligibility are upheld. Equipped with training, these professionals will play key roles in the proactive verification of data against government databases like the National Social Security Institute (INSS) and Federal Revenue, thereby creating stringent checks on the eligibility of aid applications.
The government's initiative aims not just to eradicate fraud but also hopes to realize substantial financial savings of around R$ 70 billion by 2026 by stopping improper payments and streamlining administrative costs. "The government estimates savings of approximately R$ 70 billion by 2026, eliminating improper payments and optimizing the budget for social programs like Bolsa Família," highlighting the dual benefits of fiscal prudence along with increased efficacy.
To navigate these changes, recipients of CadÚnico are encouraged to keep their data up-to-date, whether through the app or at CRAS locations. They should watch for official communications about their biometric appointments and address any pending administrative issues swiftly to protect their benefits from interruptions.
With these transformative changes to the Cadastro Único, the Brazilian government aims to create a more efficient, transparent, and equitable system of social support. By leveraging modern technologies and rigorous training, the commitment is clear: social assistance should be directed only to those who meet the eligibility requirements, ensuring aid reaches the most vulnerable.