The Cadastro Único (CadÚnico) system has faced significant challenges, affecting millions of Brazilians. The latest changes, which began on March 17, 2025, introduced a modernized version of the system aimed at improving the quality of service delivery, although users nationwide are experiencing disruptions.
On March 18, 2025, the Prefeitura de Manaus announced that the CadÚnico system is still unstable, despite earlier expectations that it would return to normal on March 17. The ongoing issues not only hinder new registrations but also create difficulties in updating existing information, thus impacting the families that rely on social assistance programs.
Locally, the Centralized Registration of CadÚnico located in the Secretaria Municipal de Assistência Social at Av. Colombo Machado Salles, will serve the communities under CRAS I and II from 1 PM to 7 PM, Monday to Friday. The aim of relocating this service is to enhance service quality, improve communication, and streamline processes for the public. Nevertheless, CRAS I and II will continue to remain as the first point of contact for families seeking social assistance.
Launched by the Ministério do Desenvolvimento e Assistência Social, Família e Combate à Fome (MDS), the updated CadÚnico serves 93.6 million low-income individuals across Brazil, combining over 40 federal initiatives like the Bolsa Família and the Benefício de Prestação Continuada (BPC). The modernization had been anticipated as a significant upgrade, the first substantial change since 2010.
The new system integrates government databases and relies on advanced technology to reduce bureaucracy and combat fraud while ensuring the rights of existing beneficiaries remain intact. With the CPF acting as the primary identifier, users can expect real-time data retrieval from various sources, including the Receita Federal and INSS.
The broader goal of these efforts is to create a more efficient and transparent approach to social support, especially as many families struggle in light of the current economic climate. Millions depend on these programs for essential support; thus, ensuring their smooth operation is critical.
Preparations for the new system involved training over 40,000 professionals to ensure seamless integration with the upgraded platform. Training commenced in February 2025, aimed at equipping operators with skills necessary for navigating the new technology and managing offline settings in hard-to-reach areas. This proactive step is crucial, especially for socially vulnerable communities lacking stable internet access.
As of now, previous registrants of CadÚnico need not worry about re-registration, as their benefits will continue seamlessly. The restructuring is designed to enhance the user experience in preparing for registrations or updates of their existing data.
But what about those who are in immediate need of support? On the ground, social workers in CRAS centers are advising families to ensure their documents, particularly their CPF, are up to date with the Receita Federal to facilitate smooth processing within the new CadÚnico system. Keeping family information current remains vital in this transformative period.
Despite the promise of a more advanced system and the long-term benefits it may bring, urgent measures are needed during this transition phase to mitigate delays and provide timely assistance to those reliant on government support programs. For many, the CadÚnico is their lifeline, and its current instability presents a challenge that cannot be overlooked.
The modernization process is viewed by experts as a step towards establishing greater equality in resource distribution and streamlining the accessibility of social services across Brazil. Enhanced analytical capabilities will provide local governments with insights necessary for addressing the varying social needs of populations.
However, as this ambitious undertaking unfolds, officials remain committed to minimizing the effects of the system's challenges while prioritizing communication with affected families. The focus remains on delivering essential support promptly and effectively, even amidst the setbacks.
In conclusion, the CadÚnico straddles a pivotal moment of transformation. While the upgraded system shows immense promise, challenges loom large as it aims to serve millions. Ensuring stability and reliability in the registration process will be crucial as Brazil continues its march towards more robust social support mechanisms.
