TCU orders INSS to review 101,000 fishing insurance benefits

The Federal Court of Accounts (TCU) has ordered the National Social Security Institute (INSS) to review 101,248 'seguro-defeso' benefits granted in 2024. An audit identified potential irregularities in payments totaling R$ 654 million.

Of the suspected benefits, 56,827 involve registration inconsistencies related to CPF numbers, with a potential impact of R$ 401 million. Another 44,421 cases show signs of failure to meet eligibility requirements, such as active formal employment or prohibited payment accumulation, totaling approximately R$ 253 million. The audit estimated that total irregular expenses for the benefit in 2024 could reach up to R$ 3.06 billion, based on discrepancies between registered beneficiaries and the estimated number of artisanal fishermen.

The INSS has 180 days to conduct these reviews. If administrative processes confirm improper payments, the agency must seek reimbursement to public coffers. The audit also noted significant growth in adult beneficiaries in states like Maranhão, Pará, and Amapá, where the increase far outpaced local population growth.