INSS changes payroll loan rules: facial biometrics and 90-day block

The publication of Normative Instruction 213 by the National Institute of Social Security (INSS) on August 19 generated an increase in searches for information about the agency and its rules. The new regulation, which is already in effect, implements significant changes to the procedures for contracting and portability of payroll loans, directly affecting retirees and pensioners.

New rules for payroll loans

Normative Instruction 213 introduces changes in various points related to payroll credit. Among the main changes is the possibility for retirees and pensioners without facial biometrics in the federal government's databases to once again contract these loans. Additionally, the regulation formalizes the block on payroll credit in the first 90 days of the benefit, preventing contracting even with the financial institution where the beneficiary receives payment.

Relaxation of facial biometrics for some

Facial biometrics had been adopted last August as a security requirement to combat fraud. Under the new rule, beneficiaries without biometric records will not be prevented from contracting credit. Loan authorization can be done via the Meu INSS app, using bank data. Facial biometric technology, however, remains available for those with photos in official databases, such as the National Driver's License and the Electoral Court.

Security requirements and fraud prevention

Despite the waiver of facial biometrics for some beneficiaries, INSS states that Normative Instruction 213 maintains a series of requirements to prevent fraud. After the holder's authorization, the institution receiving the contract has 20 days to confirm the operation; otherwise, the transfer will be canceled. Deductions from the benefit can only occur after the bank sends the required documentation to INSS. Institutions must also inform, within seven business days, the loan deposit data in the beneficiary's account, which will allow cross-referencing the contract with money receipt and help identify fraudulent operations. Authorization for the deduction cannot be done by phone or proven by voice recording.

90-day block for all banks

Another important change formalized by Normative Instruction 213 is the removal of a loophole that allowed contracting payroll loans with the paying bank in the first 90 days. The automatic block for contracting payroll credit has existed since April 2019, with release from the 91st day. In 2024, a rule had stipulated that the block would not apply to loans contracted directly with the first paying financial institution. This exception was challenged in court by the Brazilian Bank Association (ABBC) and suspended by an injunction in October 2024. Now, Normative Instruction No. 213 formalizes the removal of this loophole, making the 90-day lock applicable to all institutions, including the paying bank.

Differences between benefit portability and debt portability

It is important to distinguish between two procedures with similar names. Benefit portability refers to changing the bank where the retiree receives monthly payment, something that can be requested at any time. Debt portability is the transfer of an already contracted payroll loan to another financial institution, usually in search of lower interest rates. For debt portability, the new rule requires the insured to sign a specific authorization term on the Meu INSS app, and the operation will only take effect after sending the documentation required by the financial institution, including contract, express deduction authorization, and information on value, installments, interest, and the institution responsible for the operation. Meu INSS Vale+, a modality of anticipation of up to R$ 150 of the benefit, remains suspended.

With information from Poder360, Extra online.