INSS accident allowance (auxílio-acidente) in Brazil: who is entitled, the 50% amount and how to apply

*The accident allowance (auxílio-acidente) is an INSS (social security) compensation benefit paid to those who, after an accident of any kind, are left with a permanent injury that reduces their capacity for the work they did. The amount is 50% of the benefit salary, it can be received together with salary and it is paid until retirement (Law 8,213/1991, art. 86).*

Quick summary

• Who is entitled: employees, domestic workers, casual workers and special insured persons (rural).
• Requirement: a permanent injury that reduces capacity for usual work.
• Amount: 50% of the benefit salary.
• Qualifying period: not required.
• Combined with salary: yes — the worker can keep working.
• Until when: until the day before retirement or death.

Examples of lasting injuries

• Partial loss of movement in a hand, arm or leg.
• Hearing loss caused by noise at work.
• Amputation of fingers.
• Reduced strength or mobility after a fracture.

The accident may be work-related or of any kind, including outside work, such as a weekend traffic accident.

How to apply

1. Usually, the accident allowance is assessed at the end of sickness benefit, when the medical examination finds the injury.
2. If it was not granted automatically, apply through Meu INSS or by phone at 135.
3. Bring reports, tests and the CAT (work accident report), if it was a work accident — see Work accidents.
4. If denied, there is an administrative appeal or a lawsuit in the Federal Court (or State Court, if work-related).

Points to watch

• Individual contributors and MEIs (individual micro-entrepreneurs) are generally not entitled to the accident allowance.
• When it results from a work accident, lawsuits about the benefit are heard by the State Courts.
• The amount counts toward contribution salary for future retirement, under current rules.

Frequently asked questions

Can I work while receiving the accident allowance?

Yes. It is compensation and does not replace salary.

Is the accident allowance paid together with retirement?

No. For benefits granted since 1997, it ends upon retirement.

Read more in this series

• INSS sickness benefit in 2026
• Work accidents: CAT and rights
• RSI/WMSD: occupational disease
• Moral damages in labor cases
• Index: complete guide to labor rights