Understand the Bolsa Família Food Card in 2024

The government's financial aid program is expanding its benefits, as is the case with Bolsa Família food card. And understanding how it works is of utmost importance for beneficiaries. Therefore, check out the main information about it below: Bolsa Família food card! 

What is the Bolsa Família food card?

O Bolsa Família Food Card It is a benefit intended for beneficiaries who receive Bolsa Família.

Initially, the card is not directly related to the program, so much so that in some states the benefits are given different names, such as Prato Cheio, Cartão sem Fome and others. 

Through the food card, families receive a monthly amount exclusively for purchasing food.

In addition to ensuring access to food, the program also seeks to stimulate local economic development by promoting the consumption of food products in small businesses in the benefited regions. 

The card is linked to the CPF of the person responsible for the family, and the value of the benefit varies according to the family composition and the socioeconomic situation of each one.

How much is the Bolsa Família food card worth?

One of the main objectives is to provide access to adequate food for families in situations of social vulnerability and food insecurity.

As the card is not a national benefit, the value may vary according to the rules of the states that make it available.

For example, there are states that have access to a value of R$ 300, or also R$ 250. Therefore, the recommendation is to check whether the option is available in your region and what the value is.  

Who is entitled to the Bolsa Família food card?

Initially, to be eligible for a food card, you must meet the specific requirements of each state, which may vary.

For example, in the Federal District, you need to be registered with CadÚnico, have a family income of up to half the minimum wage and live in the DF.

In Ceará, the Ceará Sem Fome program requires that CadÚnico be updated for the last 24 months, that the income per person is up to R$$ 218.00 (including Bolsa Família), that there is at least one child up to 14 years old in the family and that Bolsa Família is not blocked.

It is important to check your state's official website, which should have “gov.br” in the address, to find out the exact criteria. 

It is worth remembering that, although some states link the card to CadÚnico, it is not a Bolsa Família benefit.

How do I get a Bolsa Família food card?

If you are interested in obtaining a Federal Government Food Card, you must follow some process guidelines.

First, check if the food card is available in your state. Then, go to the CRAS closest to your region and present an official document with a photo, such as an ID or driver's license, as well as proof of residence and documents for all family members. 

At CRAS, it will be necessary to sign a receipt, confirming the withdrawal of the benefit. 

After evaluation and approval, the card will be issued and delivered, and can be used immediately. The card is recharged monthly, and any unused balance can be accumulated for the following months.

What are the other benefits related to Bolsa Família?

There are other benefits that are related to the government's financial aid program that beneficiaries can take advantage of. Among the options are:  

• Citizenship Income;
• Supplementary Benefit;
• Early Childhood Benefit;
• Family Variable Benefits.

Finally, to access the Food Voucher and other benefits, families must follow the Bolsa Família rules, keep their documentation and CadÚnico up to date.

Written by

Juliana Raquel