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Government announces 15% increase in Bolsa Família 17 days before elections

The federal government announced a 15% increase in Bolsa Família 17 days before elections, raising the minimum benefit amount.

18 September 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Government announces 15% increase in Bolsa Família 17 days before elections — Archive photoPhoto: PT - Partido dos Trabalhadores · Flickr · BY

The federal government revealed a 15% increase in the value of Bolsa Família during a live announcement from the Palácio do Planalto, streamed on President Lula's channel. This adjustment raises the minimum benefit from R$ 600 to R$ 691 per family.

Additionally, the decree formalizing this change was published in a special edition of the Diário Oficial. The announcement comes just days before the first round of the elections, which will take place in 17 days.

The measure has elicited reactions in the political landscape. Several presidential candidates, including Ronaldo Caiado, Renan Santos, and Romeu Zema, criticized the increase, describing it as electioneering. They expressed concerns about the government's intention to use such action to influence the electoral process.

Flávio Bolsonaro also voiced criticism, referring to the increase as a 'small amount' and asserting that the government's action is an attempt to buy votes. He characterized the adjustment as 'an act of desperation.'

On the other hand, the government's justification was set against a backdrop of rising living costs and the need to adjust social benefits according to the population's needs.

However, the initiative raised questions among analysts about its impact on public finances, as the estimated additional cost is R$ 5.8 billion in 2026 and R$ 22.7 billion in 2027.

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