In the current scenario, where basic expenses represent a significant challenge for many families, the federal government has announced a new measure. And this aims to alleviate the financial burden related to water bills.
This initiative aims to benefit a portion of the population enrolled in social programs, offering a considerable reduction in monthly costs. The relevance of this measure is clear, as it seeks to provide essential financial relief to those in situations of economic vulnerability.
Benefits of the New Law
Recently enacted, the new law provides for the partial suspension of water charges for families registered in the Single Registry for Social Programs (CadÚnico). This registry can even be accessed via a mobile app. Specifically, the measure determines a reduction of 50% in the amount of the water bill. In practice, this represents a substantial reduction in monthly expenses for beneficiaries.
This discount is offered through the Social Water and Sewage Tariff, which aims to make essential services more accessible. It is aimed at citizens with lower financial resources. To qualify for this benefit, the family's per capita income must be up to half the minimum wage.
In fact, the Social Water and Sewage Tariff covers not only those with low incomes, but also families with elderly or disabled people. The legislation guarantees that the benefits are extended to users with monthly incomes up to the established limit, as long as they are registered with CadÚnico.
However, amounts received from programs such as the Continuous Benefit Payment (BPC) and Bolsa Família are not included in the calculation.
See also: FGTS profit: see how to receive more than R$500 and check it out on the Caixa APP
Procedures for Obtaining the Discount
To benefit from the discount, families must follow a few important steps. First, water and sewage service providers will be responsible for selecting families that meet the criteria established by law. If the discount does not apply automatically, interested parties must go to one of the local water and sewage service provider's service points.
In São Paulo, for example, the Basic Sanitation Company of the State of São Paulo (Sabesp) is responsible. Meanwhile, in Bahia, the Bahian Water and Sanitation Company (Embasa) performs this function.
During the appointment, you will need to present specific documents to prove your eligibility. The required documents include proof of registration with CadÚnico, your BPC beneficiary card, and a statement of payment of the benefit or a declaration provided by the National Institute of Social Security (INSS) or another social security scheme. Presenting these documents is essential to ensure that the discount is correctly applied to your water bill.
Help for vulnerable families
The recently enacted law represents a significant step towards reducing water bills for many vulnerable families. With a 50% reduction in bills, the initiative has the potential to significantly ease the financial burden on beneficiaries.
For those who qualify, it is crucial to follow established procedures to ensure that the discount is applied appropriately. Families should pay attention to the guidelines of service providers and prepare the necessary documentation to ensure that they can fully benefit from the benefits offered. This measure reflects an ongoing effort to improve living conditions and provide essential financial support to those most in need.
See also: WhatsApp will be banned after UNPRECEDENTED decision by the President of the Republic
