BPC/LOAS 2026: who is entitled
BPC/LOAS in 2026: one minimum wage (R$ 1,621), age, disability and income requirements, the CadÚnico and what to do if the application is denied.
Sidnei Pedro Dias
9/26/20262 min read
The Continuous Cash Benefit, known as BPC or LOAS, guarantees one minimum wage per month to elderly people or people with disabilities who cannot support themselves or be supported by their family. In 2026, the amount is R$ 1,621.00, under Decree 12.797/2025. Unlike retirement, the BPC does not require INSS contributions.
Who can receive it
The rule is in art. 20 of Law 8.742/1993 (Organic Law of Social Assistance). Those entitled are:
People aged 65 or older
People with disabilities of any age, including children, with a long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairment lasting at least two years
In both cases, the family's economic vulnerability must be shown.
The income criterion
The law considers a family unable to support itself when its monthly income per person is equal to or less than one quarter of the minimum wage. In 2026, that equals R$ 405.25 per person.
This number is not the only criterion. The law itself admits other evidence of poverty and vulnerability (art. 20, § 11), and the STF has recognized that the one-quarter limit cannot be applied in absolute terms. Spending on medicine, diapers, special diets and treatments not covered by the SUS, for example, may be considered, especially in court.
Single Registry and CPF
Registration with the CPF (taxpayer ID) and the Single Registry (CadÚnico) is mandatory to apply for and keep the benefit (art. 20, § 12). The registration must be up to date with correct information on everyone living in the household, because the INSS calculates family income from it. Outdated registration is a frequent cause of denial and suspension.
How to apply
The application is made through Meu INSS or by calling 135. For people with disabilities, the INSS schedules a medical and a social assessment. It helps to gather detailed medical reports beforehand, with the ICD code, a description of the limitations and the estimated duration of the impairment, as well as proof of family expenses.
Points of attention
The BPC does not pay a 13th installment or generate a survivor's pension
The benefit is reviewed periodically, and failure to update the CadÚnico may lead to suspension
A denial based on income or an unconfirmed disability can be challenged by an appeal within 30 days or by a lawsuit
Claim denied? There is a way forward
In the Federal Small Claims Court, the judge usually appoints an independent medical expert and social worker, who visit the home and assess the family's reality. Read also what to do when the INSS denies a benefit and learn about our work in social security law.
Assess my BPC case on WhatsApp
Informational content, in accordance with Provision 205/2021 of the Federal Council of the Brazilian Bar Association (OAB). Each case requires individual analysis. Information updated in September 2026.