Brazil grants legal rights and benefits to elderly citizens

Brazilian legislation, primarily through the Statute of the Elderly, establishes various social protections and financial benefits for citizens aged 60 and over. Key provisions include tax exemptions, such as partial or total IPTU (property tax) relief depending on municipal laws, and additional income tax exemptions for those aged 65 or older regarding pensions and retirement income.

For vulnerable populations, the Continuous Cash Benefit (BPC/LOAS) provides financial support to low-income individuals aged 65 or older, provided they are registered in the federal government’s CadÚnico system.

Transportation rights are a major component of these protections. Individuals aged 65 and older are entitled to free urban and semi-urban public transport nationwide. For interstate travel, two free seats per vehicle are reserved for elderly passengers with incomes up to two minimum wages, with a 50% discount offered if seats are occupied. Local implementation varies; for example, Rio de Janeiro utilizes the Jaé card for unlimited municipal travel, while São Paulo offers the Bilhete Único for residents, with specific rules for those aged 60 to 64.