The deadline for withdrawing the Abono Salarial, benefits paid to private sector workers (PIS) and public server employees (Pasep), is quickly approaching, set to end on December 27, 2024. The pressure is on as approximately R$ 218.9 million remains unclaimed, affecting 239,142 eligible workers.
Initially released on August 15, the payments for PIS/Pasep are organized by the month of birth, which means workers born in November and December must act before the cutoff date. If not claimed by this date, the unclaimed funds will revert back to the Worker Assistance Fund (FAT). "O prazo para sacar o Abono Salarial, benefício pago aos trabalhadores da iniciativa privada (PIS) e para os servidores públicos (Pasep), termina nesta sexta-feira (27)," reported by O Globo.
The value of the Abono Salarial for PIS and Pasep 2024 ranges from R$ 118 to R$ 1,412, depending on the number of months worked during the base year of 2022. This variable payment is significant for many workers, as many often rely on this supplemental income during the festive season.
Eligibility for these payments is strict. Workers must have received up to two minimum wages per month during the previous year, have been registered with PIS or Pasep for at least five years, and must have worked with formally registered employment for at least 30 days during the base year. Also, employers must have accurately reported all necessary data concerning their employment status within the RAIS (Annual Social Information Report) or eSocial system. "Quem tem direito ao Abono Salarial do PIS e do Pasep em 2024 é quem recebeu salário mensal médio de até dois salários-mínimos durante o ano-base," explains O Globo.
This year, approximately 24.5 million workers qualify for this benefit, with overall payouts expected to reach R$ 23.9 billion as per media reports. This payout is viewed as not just economic support, but also as recognition of the hard work and contributions made by the labor force.
Those caught unawares by the December 27 deadline have the potential to lose out significantly, highlighting the importance for eligible workers to be aware of their rights and the actions necessary to claim their benefits. Following the deadline, any unpaid benefits will follow the program's guidelines, returning to the FAT.
It's worth noting how last-minute claimants from otherwise excluded demographics, such as workers affected by natural disasters, have been afforded unique withdrawal timelines. For example, workers from Rio Grande do Sul, impacted by severe weather disasters, received their allowances early, regardless of their birth month.
Workers can also find considerable guidance on accessing their payments through resources like the Digital Work Card app, where they can see payment amounts and find relevant banking information. Eligible individuals should regularly check for any updates on their status through the app or contact the Alô Trabalho service from 7 AM to 10 PM (phone number: 158) to gain clarity on their entitlements.
The future of the Abono Salarial program looks promising, with upcoming allowances set for 2025 already being discussed. Recent meetings of the Council of the FAT indicated plans for benefits based on 2023's employment data, reflecting how steadfast the Brazilian government is about supporting its workforce.
For those anxiously awaiting their payday, the advice is simple—be proactive! Make sure you check your eligibility today rather than waiting until the last moment, ensuring you don’t miss out on this important economic support. The potential benefits could provide much-needed financial relief as many families prepare for the end of the year and the festivities of the holiday season.
