BRASÍLIA – The Brazilian government has announced plans to expedite pension payments for March 2025, shifting the payment dates for retirees and beneficiaries of the National Social Security Institute (INSS) to March 6 and 7. Originally scheduled for March 10, 11, and 12, this decision will directly benefit approximately 15 million people.
Taking the action to prevent payment delays due to the Carnival holiday, which begins on March 5, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's administration revealed this initiative to alleviate potential financial strain on retirees during this festive period.
According to the INSS, the payments for those receiving the minimum wage, which is currently R$ 1,518, will benefit individuals whose benefit cards have numbers ending with 8, 9, and 0. For those who earn above the minimum wage, payments will be made to beneficiaries with cards ending with the digits 3 through 0.
The first phase of payments commenced on February 24, aligning with the INSS’s regular payment schedule to minimize disruptions. By advancing the payment dates, the INSS will complete payments for all 40.6 million beneficiaries by the first week of March, ensuring they have access to funds prior to the Carnival holiday.
This foreseeable cash flow is particularly significant for low-income retirees and persons with disabilities who rely on the Benefício de Prestação Continuada (BPC), which will also be included under this expedited plan. The administration emphasized the priority of ensuring these vulnerable sectors receive their payments on time.
The INSS has clarified the new payment schedule as follows:
- For those with benefits up to one minimum wage:
- Final 1 — February 24
- Final 2 — February 25
- Final 3 — February 26
- Final 4 — February 27
- Final 5 — February 28
- Final 6 — March 6
- Final 7 — March 7
- Final 8 — March 6
- Final 9 — March 6
- Final 0 — March 7
For those earning above one minimum wage:
- Finals 1 and 6 — March 6
- Finals 2 and 7 — March 7
- Finals 3 and 8 — March 6
- Finals 4 and 9 — March 6
- Finals 5 and 0 — March 7
This initiative not only aims to provide timely assistance to millions but also responds to the typical banking delays caused by the Carnival celebrations, providing reassurance to those who depend on these funds.
Those who seek more information about their payments can utilize the "Meu INSS" app or visit the official INSS website, where detailed instructions and updates will be regularly posted.