Brazil strengthens CadÚnico oversight to prevent fraud and manage social benefits

The Brazilian government is implementing stricter measures to manage the Cadastro Único (CadÚnico) system, focusing on preventing fraud and ensuring social benefits reach eligible citizens. The Ministry of Social Development and Fight Against Hunger (MDS) has established new guidelines for 2026 to monitor requests from unipersonal households—individuals living alone. This move aims to prevent the irregular splitting of households used to duplicate or triple benefit payments within a single residence.

To qualify for federal income transfer programs, applicants must demonstrate a monthly per capita income not exceeding R$ 218. Maintaining an updated CadÚnico registry is essential, as changes in family composition, income, or address must be reported to avoid benefit suspension.

Additionally, the registry serves as a gateway to other social protections, such as water utility discounts. In São Paulo, Sabesp offers Social and Vulnerable Tariffs that can reduce water bills by up to 78% for eligible low-income families. Officials emphasize that registration is free, though completing the process requires an in-person visit to a Social Assistance Reference Center (CRAS) following any initial online pre-registration.