Can an MEI microentrepreneur also have a CLT job in Brazil?

Yes. The law does not forbid an individual microentrepreneur (MEI) from also holding a registered job. Both can coexist: the MEI pays the business tax (DAS) and the employer pays INSS on the job. Watch two points: unemployment insurance, which can be blocked on the presumption of own income, and an MEI used by an employer to disguise employment.

Quick summary

• CLT job and MEI together: allowed, as long as the MEI activity does not conflict with the employment contract.
• INSS: contributions add up toward retirement, within the ceiling.
• Unemployment insurance: the system may deny it for own income; you can appeal by showing the MEI does not generate enough income.
• "Hire me as an MEI": if there is subordination, set hours and a salary, it is disguised employment.
• Exclusivity: the contract may forbid competing with the employer.

Unemployment insurance for MEI holders

One requirement for unemployment insurance is not having enough own income to support the family (Law 7,998/1990, art. 3). When a dismissed worker has an active MEI registration, the system often blocks the claim. If the MEI is inactive or earns little, you can appeal with the MEI annual declaration (DASN-SIMEI) and other proof.

When the MEI is disguised employment

If the employer requires you to open an MEI to work every day, with set hours, a boss and fixed pay, there is an employment relationship (CLT, arts. 2 and 3). You can then ask the Labor Courts to register the job and pay the period's rights: vacation, 13th salary, FGTS and overtime.

Frequently asked questions

Can I open an MEI while employed?

Yes. Just check whether your contract has an exclusivity or non-compete clause.

Does having an MEI prevent unemployment insurance?

Not automatically, but the claim is often blocked. If the MEI does not generate enough income, you can appeal with the DASN-SIMEI.

Can an employer hire me only as an MEI?

It can buy services from an MEI. If there is subordination, regularity and a salary, however, the relationship is employment.

Calculate: use the Unemployment insurance simulator — free, no registration.

Read more in this series

• Contractor or employee? Pejotização explained
• Unemployment insurance 2026
• Working without a signed work card
• Index: complete guide to labor rights

Topic: this guide is part of Types of employment contract, with all the guides on the subject.