CadÚnico Offers Four Fundamental Rights Beyond Bolsa Família in 2026

The Cadastro Único (CadÚnico), operated by Brazil's Ministry of Development and Social Assistance, has become a strategic tool for managing and distributing social public policies. Functioning as more than a simple registry, it serves as an essential mechanism for screening and including millions of families in vital programs. While best known as the gateway to Bolsa Família, the CadÚnico's reach extends significantly beyond income transfer, providing access to multiple rights that directly impact household costs and living standards for low-income families.

One of the most immediate benefits involves reductions in essential utilities. Through the Social Tariff for Electricity and Water, registered families can access substantial discounts on basic service bills—electricity discounts can reach up to 65% depending on monthly consumption and household income bracket. Additionally, the Povo Gas Program (Programa Gás do Povo) provides electronic vouchers for free LPG cylinder refills, directly alleviating a major household expense. These utilities represent crucial components of family budgets, particularly for low-income households.

Beyond cost reduction, CadÚnico registration opens pathways for social and professional mobility. Registered individuals receive full exemptions from application fees for federal public sector competitions, removing financial barriers to formal employment opportunities. Students gain free access to the Enem (National High School Exam), facilitating university entrance and academic advancement. These educational and employment benefits address structural barriers to upward mobility.

The registry also ensures access to cultural and mobility rights tailored to different age groups. Youth aged 15-29 from low-income families receive the ID Jovem card, providing free or discounted interstate bus passes and half-price admission to cultural and sporting events. Citizens over 60 obtain the Senior Citizen Card, guaranteeing free or discounted intercity transportation. These initiatives promote social inclusion and ensure vulnerable populations can access culture, leisure, and mobility opportunities.

Despite the breadth of these benefits, many Brazilians remain unaware of the full range of opportunities available through CadÚnico registration in 2026. Maintaining eligibility requires regular cadastral updates, underscoring the importance of keeping registration current to continue accessing these fundamental rights.