How to know if you are entitled to inactive FGTS

If you want find out if you are entitled to inactive FGTS, this guide gets straight to the point. More than just a benefit, it could be the turning point your personal finances were missing.

Here, you'll find out what an inactive balance is, how to check it, in which situations withdrawals are possible, and what to do with that money.

We'll also show recent changes in the law, real-life examples, a creative analogy, and an updated overview of how millions of Brazilians have ignored this resource.

What exactly is inactive FGTS?

When you terminate an employment contract governed by the CLT, the FGTS account linked to that company stops receiving deposits.

From then on, it becomes inactive. The balance remains there, earning a modest yield (3% per year + TR), but it remains yours—and can be withdrawn, as long as you meet the legal requirements.

According to Caixa Econômica Federal, more than R$12 billion in inactive accounts were released between March and June 2025.

And the most curious thing? Much of this amount has not yet been recovered due to workers' lack of knowledge.

Understand why you may have idle money

It's common to change jobs several times throughout life. During these transitions, many forget to check the balance in the accounts linked to their previous contracts.

A machine operator, for example, who worked between 2014 and 2017 and left without cashing out, could now have more than R$ 2,000 in adjusted wages waiting for him—an amount that makes a difference, especially in tough times.

Another example: Carla, who was working in a temporary public position, only discovered in 2025 that there was still a balance on a contract from three years earlier.

Caixa's official app revealed more than R$ 3,500 forgotten.

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How to find out if you are entitled to inactive FGTS: step by step

You don't need intermediaries to verify. To find out if you are entitled to inactive FGTS, download the FGTS app (available on the Play Store and App Store), access it with your CPF and gov.br password.

Within seconds, you'll see all your accounts—both active (from your current job) and inactive (from past jobs).

The interface itself indicates which accounts are inactive and whether the amount can be withdrawn at the moment.

It is also possible to check the current withdrawal method (termination, anniversary or special situations such as serious illness).

If you prefer, you can access the official website of Federal Savings Bank or visit a physical branch. Just bring your CPF, photo ID, and work permit.

When is it allowed to withdraw inactive FGTS?

Know if you are entitled to inactive FGTS It also means understanding in which situations withdrawal is legally authorized. Here are the main ones:

• Dismissal without just cause (full withdrawal of the balance);
• Retirement;
• Three years outside the CLT regime, with a contract ending on December 31, 2022;
• Serious illnesses such as cancer or HIV (with medical report);
• Death of the holder (withdrawal by legal dependents);
• Purchase of own property (single residence of the holder);
• Birthday bag, as long as it is within the official calendar;
• Emergency situations, as a public calamity (declared by municipalities or states).

Table: when you can withdraw your inactive FGTS

Recent changes and what to expect in the future

In 2025, the federal government made withdrawals more flexible for workers who signed up for the anniversary withdrawal and were laid off before February of that year.

The release took place in two stages, moving more than R$12.9 billion in inactive balances.

The expectation for the second half of the year is new measures aimed at renegotiating debts using the FGTS as collateral.

Furthermore, the FGTS digital system continues to evolve, integrating with Pix and the Gov.br system to further facilitate access.

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Is your FGTS yielding less than it should?

Leaving your FGTS (Fund for Severance Indemnity) unused for years means watching your money depreciate. The fund's return rate (TR + 3% per year) is lower than that of basic investments like Treasury Bonds (Selic) or even savings accounts in many scenarios.

In 2024, the FGTS yielded an average of 6.05%, while inflation (IPCA) was 4.83% — a narrow margin.

If you withdraw and invest this money strategically, the return can be much more significant. Think of it like leaving your car parked for years with the engine running: it's consuming money without generating any real value.

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Smart uses for inactive balance

After find out if you are entitled to inactive FGTS, the question arises: how best to use this money? Here are three ideas with real impact:

1. Pay off expensive debts, such as a credit card or overdraft — interest relief is immediate;
2. Invest in professional training, with technical courses or specializations that open doors;
3. Build an emergency fund, essential for those who work independently or want security in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

Don't think of the FGTS as a random bonus, but rather as a strategic piece in your financial planning.

Why do so many people ignore this right?

Many believe there's no need to check their inactive balance because they think the amount is small. Others don't even know they can check it without leaving home.

But, according to the Ministry of Labor, in 2024 alone, more than 4 million workers stopped withdrawing money amounts greater than R$ 1,000 due to simple misinformation.

Have you ever wondered if you are among them?

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it possible to have more than one inactive account at the same time?
Yes, each job generates a new FGTS account. You can have several inactive accounts if you've had more than one formal contract.

2. What if I'm outside the country? Can I withdraw?
Yes, you can. The process can be initiated through the Brazilian consulate or by notarized power of attorney.

3. Does the anniversary withdrawal allow me to withdraw the entire amount?
No. Only a portion is released annually. The remainder remains blocked, even in cases of dismissal.

4. Do I need to pay anything to check or withdraw my FGTS?
No. Consultation and withdrawal are free. Avoid paid or unofficial services.

Conclusion: FGTS could be what your budget was missing

Know if you are entitled to inactive FGTS It's more than a consultation: it's a way to recover part of your professional trajectory in the form of financial benefits.

And with today's technology, this has never been easier.

If you still have questions, visit the Caixa website or enter directly into Gov.br Portal. Don't leave what's yours waiting for another year.

Your next step may be hidden in a forgotten account.