The monthly payment of pensions and retirements is guaranteed by the National Institute of Social Security (INSS) to millions of beneficiaries. A common question among them is whether it is necessary to appear in person at a bank branch to withdraw the money. The good news is that this requirement is no longer mandatory.
Currently, retirees have several alternatives to manage their funds without having to face lines at banks. Among these options, in addition to traditional withdrawals, are the use of cards, digital accounts, banking apps, and online payments.
In this article, we will explore the modalities for receiving pensions, the alternatives available to beneficiaries, and precautions to protect against fraud.
The non-mandatory nature of in-person withdrawals
There is no obligation to withdraw benefits at bank branches. The INSS makes payments through partner financial institutions, which offer various ways for retirees and pensioners to access their resources quickly.
With this flexibility, many beneficiaries can manage their benefits via their smartphones, using apps to check balances, transfer funds, and pay bills, eliminating the need to withdraw cash.
This practical access is especially advantageous for elderly individuals who face mobility difficulties or live in remote areas.
Available modalities for receiving retirement benefits
Retirees can choose from various forms of payment, which vary according to the bank responsible for the deposit. Among the options are:
- withdrawal at electronic terminals;
- use of the bank’s magnetic card;
- deposits into checking accounts;
- digital accounts;
- transactions via apps;
- payments with debit cards;
- bank transfers.
The institutions set their own rules regarding limits and available services.
How the INSS benefit card works
A resource frequently used by beneficiaries is the card issued by the responsible bank, which allows for withdrawals at electronic terminals, lottery houses, and other authorized locations. In addition to withdrawing, the card also offers functionalities such as:
- checking balance;
- issuing statements;
- making purchases;
- paying bills;
- transferring funds.
Retirees can thus manage their balance throughout the month without the need to withdraw the entire amount received.
Receiving retirement through digital accounts
Beneficiaries have the option to receive their payments either in checking accounts or digital accounts, allowing them to carry out various transactions without leaving home. With banking apps, retirees can:
- pay bills;
- make transfers via Pix;
- access statements;
- shop online;
- set up automatic payments.
This modality has gained popularity with the advancement of digitalization in the financial system.
Use of the Meu INSS application
It is crucial to mention that the Meu INSS application does not allow for withdrawals or payments. Its main function is to provide information about pension benefits, such as:
- payment history;
- statements;
- deposit calendar;
- registration data;
- applications and requests;
- information about payroll loans.
Insured individuals can also track applications under review and access documents related to benefits on the platform.
Alternatives for beneficiaries with mobility difficulties
For beneficiaries facing physical limitations or health issues, the INSS allows the appointment of a trusted person as an attorney or legal representative. It is necessary to follow the requirements of the agency, present the requested documentation, and formalize the representation through appropriate channels.
Precautions against fraud
Retirees and pensioners can become targets of fraud, with attempts to obtain banking data through fraudulent messages and calls. To protect themselves, it is recommended:
- not to share passwords or codes received via SMS;
- to avoid giving card information to strangers;
- to be cautious with offers of additional payments;
- not to click on suspicious links sent via apps;
- to verify information only through official INSS channels;
- to consult the Meu INSS app or the Central 135 in case of doubts.
It is essential to remember that the institute never requests banking passwords or requires payments to release benefits.
Consequences of not moving the benefit
The amounts of benefits remain available in the beneficiary’s account for a period determined by the financial institution. However, long periods without transactions may result in blocks or the need for additional procedures to regularize the account.
Therefore, it is advisable for retirees to check their statements regularly and keep their data updated with both the financial institution and the INSS.
How to check benefit payments
Beneficiaries can access information about their payments in various ways, such as:
- Meu INSS app;
- INSS portal;
- internet banking of the financial institution;
- self-service terminals;
- Customer Service Central 135.
Making inquiries regularly is essential to identify suspicious transactions and ensure adequate financial control.