In recent months, debt relief initiatives across Brazil have seen remarkable engagement as consumers seek to manage their financial burdens. Among the most significant of these is the Feirão Limpa Nome, a nationwide effort that has already helped thousands of Brazilians negotiate their debts at phenomenal discounts.
In Maranhão, over 72,000 consumers have successfully completed a total of 125,958 agreements during the Serasa Limpa Nome Fair, garnering more than R$ 392 million in discounts on their overdue accounts. The Fair's success has coincided with a notable 5.8% increase in the usage of the dedicated service telephone number, 0800 591 5161, compared to the same period last year, indicating a growing preference for quick and convenient debt negotiations.
The overall trend in Brazil showcases a dramatic 34.6% growth in negotiations as a reaction to the current economic climate, which has prompted consumers to take decisive action regarding their financial situations. Patricia Camillo, a financial expert at Serasa, highlights that "the rise in interest rates encourages Brazilians to renegotiate their debts before they become even more expensive." For many, these initiatives are seen as a lifeline in challenging financial times.
The importance of financial education has also come to the forefront during these events. Popular influencer Gil do Vigor emphasized this aspect during his recent visit to São Paulo for the fair. He stated, "Managing resources and planning for the financial future transforms lives, ensuring greater stability." His presence effectively underlines the vital need for consumers to acquire skills in managing their finances as they navigate debt recovery.
Notably, despite the Serasa initiative, the Procon Amazonas Limpa Nome Fair, which concluded on March 21, 2025, also saw significant participation. More than 2,600 consumers took advantage of the opportunity to renegotiate debts with discounts of up to 90%. Over five days, the Procon assisted consumers tackling outstanding balances with utility companies, banks, and retail stores, negotiating over R$ 6 million in obligations.
Maria Valdizia, an elderly retiree who participated in the Procon fair, shared her experience: "Since 2010 I had been in debt and couldn’t pay. When I tried to negotiate, the amounts were unaffordable. Today, I received a discount of over 50%. I’m grateful and now that I have the chance, I’ll strive to pay it off." Her testimony illustrates how such fairs can empower individuals to regain control over their financial situations.
Furthermore, Jalil Fraxe, the director of Procon Amazonas, noted the success of the event, stating, "We have negotiated more than 6 million reais in debts and performed over 2,600 services. This reflects the economic reality of the country and the importance of initiatives like these for individuals needing to renegotiate their debts." The Procon is also set to continue offering assistance for ongoing debt negotiations and financial guidance beyond these fairs.
In addition to these organized events, the Alô Serasa program has ensured broader access for consumers needing help with their overdue bills. The initiative allows consumers to negotiate their debts via phone, a service available from March 18 to 22, 2025. The program, which can be accessed by calling 0800 591 5161, experienced a significant uptake during its previous edition, with over 44,000 individuals reaching out for assistance.
Trained representatives are available to assist consumers from 9 AM to 8 PM, providing clarity and support throughout the negotiation process. Those contacting the service can enjoy discounts of up to 99%, as well as flexible payment options, including instant payments through Pix.
Notably, consumers have the flexibility to consolidate multiple overdue accounts into a single payment, which can be paid in installments over 72 months if necessary. This wide-ranging support illustrates a commitment to addressing the financial challenges faced by many Brazilians, particularly amid increasing costs caused by rising interest rates.
Nevertheless, Serasa has advised consumers to remain cautious about potential scams linked to debt negotiations. The organization has stressed that their official line will only assist through the designated toll-free number. "If a different or similar-sounding number contacts you claiming to be a Serasa representative, it's not legitimate," warns Daniel Nure, the coordinator for the 0800 operation, promising protection for consumers engaging in this process.
The momentum from these debt relief initiatives continues to raise awareness about effective debt management and financial planning. As events such as these progress, they serve as essential platforms for both education and restoration of consumer confidence, linking economic actions with the broader need for literacy in financial matters.
With various negotiation avenues available, including the possibility for ongoing financial counseling, Brazilians are encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities as the deadline for negotiations remains open until March 31, 2025, via online platforms like the Serasa website and Correios.
Overall, as the country grapples with rising interest rates and a fluctuating economic situation, initiatives like the Feirão Limpa Nome are providing essential support to those facing financial hardships, reinforcing the essential nature of financial education and interactive support systems in navigating economic challenges.
