Unemployment insurance in Brazil 2026: amount, installments and how to apply

*In 2026, each unemployment insurance (seguro-desemprego) installment ranges from R$ 1,621.00 (one minimum wage) to R$ 2,518.65. The benefit is paid in 3 to 5 installments to those dismissed without cause who meet the minimum work period.* The application must be made between the 7th and the 120th day after dismissal.

Quick summary

• Minimum installment: R$ 1,621.00 · Maximum installment: R$ 2,518.65.
• Number: 3 to 5 installments, depending on time worked and the number of previous applications.
• Deadline to apply: from the 7th to the 120th day after dismissal (domestic workers: 7th to 90th day).
• Where to apply: the Digital Work Card app, gov.br or service centers.
• Not entitled: those who resigned, were dismissed for cause or left by mutual agreement under art. 484-A of the CLT (Brazil's Consolidated Labor Laws).

2026 calculation table

The amount is based on the average of the last three salaries before dismissal:

• Average up to R$ 2,222.17 — Installment: 80% of the average, never below R$ 1,621.00
• Average from R$ 2,222.18 to R$ 3,703.99 — Installment: R$ 1,777.74 + 50% of the amount above R$ 2,222.17
• Average above R$ 3,703.99 — Installment: R$ 2,518.65 (fixed amount)

Example: average salary of R$ 3,000. The amount above R$ 2,222.17 is R$ 777.83; half of that is R$ 388.92. Installment: R$ 1,777.74 + R$ 388.92 = R$ 2,166.66.

How many installments you receive

• 1st application — 12 to 23 months worked: 4 installments · 24 months or more: 5 installments (requires at least 12 months in the last 18)
• 2nd application — 9 to 11 months: 3 installments · 12 to 23 months: 4 installments · 24 or more: 5 installments (requires at least 9 months in the last 12)
• 3rd application onward — 6 to 11 months: 3 installments · 12 to 23 months: 4 installments · 24 or more: 5 installments (requires the 6 months immediately before)

Step by step to apply

1. Keep the application form given by the employer on dismissal (or check whether the notice was sent digitally).
2. Open the Digital Work Card app with your gov.br account and go to "Benefícios" › "Seguro-desemprego".
3. Check the employment and dismissal details and submit the application within the deadline.
4. Follow the result in the app; installments are paid by Caixa.
5. If the application is denied, you can file an administrative appeal through the same channel.

Special situations

• Constructive dismissal recognized in court gives the right to the insurance — see Constructive dismissal.
• Domestic employees have their own rules: up to 3 installments of one minimum wage — see Domestic workers' rights.
• Temporary workers whose term ends normally are generally not entitled.

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum unemployment insurance amount in 2026?

R$ 2,518.65 per installment.

Does someone who resigns receive unemployment insurance?

No. The benefit is for dismissal without cause or constructive dismissal.

What is the deadline to apply for unemployment insurance?

From the 7th to the 120th day after dismissal. For domestic employees, from the 7th to the 90th day.

Does someone who left by mutual agreement receive unemployment insurance?

No. The agreement under art. 484-A of the CLT does not give the right to unemployment insurance.

Read more in this series

• Severance pay: what you receive for each type of dismissal
• FGTS: how to check it, when to withdraw and how the 40% penalty works
• Constructive dismissal: when the worker can "fire" the employer
• Domestic workers: rights under LC 150/2015 (2026 guide)
• Index: complete guide to labor rights