Last year, the Ministry of Labor began expressing its explicit plans to end the labor phenomenon FGTS birthday withdrawal (Service Time Guarantee Fund). Months later, the ministry announced that it planned to change the method, and would no longer end rescue operations as in the beginning.
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Amid this confusion, some workers don't know whether it is still possible to opt into the system and make annual withdrawals. The answer is yes, it remains available to Brazilians.
How does the method work?
When the worker starts working, a new account linked to his name is created in the security fund. He is automatically obligated to terminate the withdrawal, as these amounts are only recovered after unfair dismissal, in addition to a 40% termination penalty.
But there is an alternative system called the birthday withdrawal, which allows the annual withdrawal of a portion of the amounts every year, in the month of the contributor’s birth. By choosing, the employee is prevented from withdrawing the full FGTS in the event of unfair dismissal, leaving only the fine.
The new government's idea is to change the rules to allow those who chose to withdraw over Christmas to also withdraw the rest of the money when they are sacked by their boss. Labor and Employment Minister Luiz Marinho said he intends to introduce a bill with the changes by March.
Withdrawal calendar
Those who choose this system can withdraw between 5% and 50% of the amount accumulated in their FGTS accounts, in addition to a fixed installment of up to R$2,900. The withdrawal range depends on the amount of funds available.
The calendar takes into account the workers' birth month. See the 2024 Birthday Draw dates:
- January Birthdays: Withdrawal from January 2nd to March 29th
- February Birthdays: Withdrawal from February 1 to April 30
- March birthdays: Withdrawal from March 1 to May 31
- April Birthdays: Withdrawal from April 1 to June 28
- May Birthdays: Withdrawal from May 2 to July 31
- June Birthdays: Withdrawal from June 3 to August 30
- July Birthdays: Withdrawal from July 1 to September 30
- August Birthdays: Withdrawal from August 1 to October 31
- September Birthdays: Withdrawal from September 2nd to November 30th
- October Birthdays: Withdrawal from October 1 to December 29
- November birthdays: Withdrawal from November 1 to January 31, 2025
- December birthdays: Withdrawal from December 2 to February 28, 2025
Charlotte Whitmore is a contributor at Mediarunsearch.co.uk, covering a broad range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. She focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting and practical information that helps readers stay informed about current events and emerging developments. Her work highlights stories that matter to everyday audiences, with an emphasis on accuracy, relevance, and accessible journalism that keeps readers connected to the issues shaping the UK and beyond.