On March 28, 2025, the Brazilian government officially begins disbursing forgotten funds from the old PIS/Pasep fund, a program that was terminated in 2020. This initiative will allow approximately 10.5 million workers who had formal employment between 1971 and 1988 to reclaim a share of the R$ 26 billion that remains unclaimed. The Ministry of Finance estimates that the average amount owed to each individual is around R$ 2,800, although the total varies based on the duration of employment and the salary earned during that period.
Eligible individuals can only withdraw funds if they submitted their requests by February 28, 2025. For those who apply by March 31, 2025, payments will be processed on April 25, 2025. The government has outlined a detailed payment schedule that stretches into 2026, ensuring that all eligible workers have the opportunity to access their funds.
This program is particularly significant as it marks a concerted effort by the federal government to return money that many Brazilians might not even realize they are owed. According to the federal government, the funds available for withdrawal represent a substantial financial resource for millions, potentially aiding in economic recovery and personal financial stability.
To check eligibility, citizens can visit the Repis Cidadão system using their Gov.BR account, which must be at the silver or gold level to ensure secure access. Alternatively, individuals can use the FGTS application available for mobile devices to verify their status. If entitled, workers need to present an official identification document at a Caixa Econômica Federal branch to withdraw their funds.
Payments will be executed exclusively through Caixa Econômica, either as credits to existing accounts or through newly opened digital savings accounts at no cost to the user. This streamlined process is designed to make it easier for individuals to access their funds without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.
Moreover, in cases where the original account holder has passed away, heirs can also claim the funds. This provision ensures that families can benefit from the financial resources that may have been overlooked due to the death of the account holder.
The release of these funds is not to be confused with the current PIS/Pasep salary bonus program, which is aimed at workers who have been employed formally for at least 30 days and earn up to two minimum wages. The old PIS/Pasep fund was created to supplement the income of formal workers and public servants, but it was deactivated in 1988. The current disbursement is a separate initiative aimed at addressing the funds that were left unclaimed.
As the payments begin, the Ministry of Finance has encouraged all eligible recipients to take the necessary steps to access their funds. The government has highlighted that failing to withdraw these amounts by September 2028 will result in the funds being permanently transferred to the National Treasury, leaving individuals with no further recourse to claim their money.
In summary, the reactivation of the PIS/Pasep fund payments represents a significant opportunity for millions of Brazilians to reclaim funds that may have been forgotten over the decades. As the payment dates approach, many are expected to take action to secure their financial entitlements, potentially improving their economic situations in a time of recovery.
