Workers will receive almost R$13 billion in FGTS profits

Around 134 million Brazilian workers will receive, by August 31, a portion of R$12.9 billion corresponding to the distribution of profits from the Severance Indemnity Fund (FGTS). The decision was approved this Thursday (24) by the fund's Board of Trustees, in Brasília.

The amount represents 95% of the R$13.6 billion profit recorded in 2024, and will be distributed proportionally among 235 million linked accounts, according to the balance of each one on December 31 of last year.

Even with the drop in profits compared to the previous year—when the FGTS hit a record with R$23.4 billion—the fund's yield in 2024 will be 6.05%, surpassing the official inflation rate of 4.83% recorded last year. The reduction in earnings was attributed to the lack of extraordinary revenues, such as the R$6.6 billion generated by the restructuring of the Porto Maravilha fund in 2023, and to the increase in withdrawals due to the floods in Rio Grande do Sul.

FGTS profits began to be shared with employees in 2017 as a way to increase the profitability of linked accounts, which traditionally yield 3% per year plus the Reference Rate (TR). This model has been a relief for shareholders in the face of inflation, as the combination of fixed income and profit sharing provides real gains above the IPCA (Brazilian Consumer Price Index) in many years.

Starting in 2024, by decision of the Federal Supreme Court (STF), the FGTS must have a minimum adjustment equivalent to the IPCA—the official inflation index. The decision, however, is not retroactive and takes effect after the publication of the ruling.

According to Caixa Econômica Federal, which manages the FGTS, withdrawals last year totaled R$163.3 billion, a 15% increase over the previous year. Revenue also broke a record, totaling R$192 billion—9% more than the R$175.4 billion in 2023.

If, in any given year, total income (including profit distributions) falls below inflation measured by the IPCA, the Board of Trustees will be required to define a compensation mechanism to ensure the minimum adjustment. This measure aims to preserve workers' purchasing power and prevent losses during periods of high inflation.

To check their updated FGTS balance, including earnings and profit distribution, workers can use the FGTS app, available free of charge for Android and iOS phones. They can also obtain a statement at any Caixa Econômica Federal branch, or through the bimonthly statement sent by post.

Anyone who has changed their address must update their registration in person at a Caixa branch or by calling 0800-726-0101.

It is worth remembering that the profit amount credited to the FGTS account is not automatically available for withdrawal.

The withdrawal of these resources follows the rules set out in law, such as in the case of unfair dismissal, purchase of property, serious illness or through the anniversary withdrawal method, which allows annual withdrawals of part of the balance, depending on the worker's adherence.