FGTS: How Brazilian workers can check and withdraw balances

Many Brazilian workers under the CLT regime are unaware of the exact amounts accumulated in their FGTS (Severance Indemnity Fund for Employees) accounts. A survey conducted by Serasa in partnership with Banco Pan indicates that four out of ten employees do not know their total balance, and 16% are unaware that they can check this information through Caixa Econômica Federal’s digital platforms.

Workers can consult their balances, deposits, and movements for free via the FGTS mobile application. This tool allows individuals to identify funds linked to previous employment contracts, which is particularly useful for those who have changed jobs multiple times.

Accessing these funds is not immediate and is subject to specific legal requirements. Valid reasons for withdrawal include dismissal without just cause, retirement, serious health conditions, or the purchase of a home. The FGTS functions as a mandatory monthly deposit of 8% of a worker's gross salary, paid entirely by the employer.