The social energy tariff is a government benefit that offers discounts on electricity bills for families in situations of social vulnerability. To apply for the social tariff, one family member only needs to be the contract holder with the distributor, and the benefit has been granted automatically since January 2022, without the need for a formal request.
If the family does not yet have the benefit, they can register through CadÚnico, seeking assistance at the CRAS (Social Assistance Reference Center) or the local distributor, through channels such as telephone, website, or in-person service. Constant updating of the registration data is essential to guarantee the continuation of the discount.
The simplicity of the process makes it easy to access the benefit, which helps reduce the monthly cost of electricity. With the correct information about the procedures and necessary documents, the family can secure the discount quickly and easily.
What is the Social Electricity Tariff?
The Social Electricity Tariff is a program aimed at reducing the cost of energy for low-income families. This benefit involves direct discounts on the electricity bill, adjusted according to monthly consumption. Furthermore, there are important differences between subsidies for electricity and those for gas.
Definition and objectives of the benefit
The Social Tariff is a benefit created by the federal government for low-income residential consumers. Its main objective is to guarantee access to electricity through discounts on the bill, easing the budget of families in situations of economic vulnerability.
Families registered in the Unified Registry for Social Programs (CadÚnico) and individuals receiving social assistance benefits are eligible. The program aims to promote social inclusion and reduce the impact of energy expenses on household budgets. Since 2022, the benefit has been granted automatically to those who are entitled, without the need for a direct request to the distributor.
How does the subsidy on the electricity bill work?
The Social Tariff discount is calculated based on monthly electricity consumption, with benefits tiered across different consumption brackets. For families consuming up to 80 kWh per month, electricity is free. Above that, up to 220 kWh, there are proportional discounts on the tariff.
This subsidy is part of a national system that limits the cost of energy for low-income residential customers, ensuring continuous access to electricity. The benefit is applied directly by the distributor to the monthly bill, reducing the amount to be paid.
Differences between Social Tariff for electricity and gas
Although there are benefits for both electricity and gas, the rules and subsidies applied are different. The Social Electricity Tariff is more structured and regulated in the country, with clear discounts based on consumption.
Subsidies for gas, especially natural gas, vary depending on the location and supplier. The Social Tariff program for natural gas is not as comprehensive as that for electricity and, in many cases, depends on other state or local policies. Therefore, the coverage and economic impact of the gas benefit tend to be smaller and less standardized.
Who can apply for the Social Tariff?
The Social Energy Tariff benefit is intended for families that meet specific criteria related to income and participation in government social programs. It also includes groups with special needs, guaranteeing discounts on electricity bills for those who need it most.
Main eligibility criteria
To be eligible for the Social Tariff, the family must be registered in the Single Registry for Social Programs of the Federal Government (CadÚnico). The monthly family income must be up to half the minimum wage per person. This criterion is the basis for defining who can access the discount.
Furthermore, the person responsible for the electricity bill must be the same as the one registered in the CadÚnico (Single Registry for Social Programs). The updating and renewal of the benefit are done automatically for registered families, eliminating the need to request it directly from the distributor.
Social programs and categories covered
Those eligible for the Social Tariff include beneficiaries of programs such as... Universal Child Allowance (AUH), non-contributory pensions, unemployment insurance, and the social security single-tax regime.Families with people who have Single Certificate of Disability (CUD) Those who rely on electrical equipment essential for medical treatment are also entitled to the benefit.
Single-parent households and indigenous or quilombola communities are also included, expanding the reach of the tariff. Being aligned with these programs and groups is essential to guarantee the discount.
Restrictions and exclusions from the benefit
The benefit is not extended to families whose income exceeds the established limit, nor to consumers who are not registered in the CadÚnico (Single Registry for Social Programs). People who already occupy rented properties for commercial activities are not entitled to the fee.
Furthermore, it is important to highlight that the benefit does not cover consumer units that do not qualify as residential. Families without updated registration in the CadÚnico (Single Registry for Social Programs) should contact the CRAS (Social Assistance Reference Center) to regularize their situation and maintain their right to the discount.
How to request the Social Energy Tariff
The Social Energy Tariff has been automatically granted to families that meet the criteria since 2022, but in some cases it is still possible to request or update the benefit. The process involves specific steps, document collection, and contact with official channels of energy distributors or regulatory bodies.
Step-by-step guide to the online application process.
To apply for the Social Tariff online, the first step is to access the official website of the responsible energy distributor, such as Enel, Edenor, or Edesur, depending on the region. Platforms like CadÚnico Brasil can also be used to check eligibility.
After accessing the portal, the user must fill out a form with personal data and energy consumption information. Updating or registering the registration may require the NIS (Social Security Number); if the user does not yet have one, they must register with CadÚnico through the CRAS (Social Assistance Reference Center).
Once the form is completed, the system automatically processes the request, forwarding it for analysis by the distributor and the regional regulatory body, such as ENRE (Ente Nacional Regulador de la Electricidad) in Argentina. Confirmation is usually provided via email or SMS.
Required documents and information
To apply for or confirm eligibility for the Social Tariff, it is essential to have the account holder's personal documents, such as ID, CPF (Brazilian tax identification number), and proof of address. The electricity bill in the beneficiary's name must be up-to-date.
In addition, it is necessary to provide the NIS number, linked to the CadÚnico (Single Registry for Social Programs), which proves the family income to meet the low-income criteria. If you do not have a NIS number, you need to register at the local CRAS (Social Assistance Reference Center).
Other documents may include proof of social programs received by the family group, such as Bolsa Família. Correct presentation facilitates the quick approval of the benefit.
Official channels for customer service and support.
Customer service is offered by the distributors operating in each region. For example, Enel provides toll-free telephone numbers for customer service: 0800 72 72 120 (São Paulo) and 0800 285 0196 (Ceará). It is also possible to schedule in-person service at the distributor's stores.
In Argentina, ENRE directly oversees applications for Edenor and Edesur, and can receive requests through its official website or telephone service. ANSES can also assist with processes related to families.
For questions and to update registration information, customers should contact their local distributor or access the available online portals, ensuring that the information is always correct to keep the benefit active.
Order tracking and status
After submitting the request, the applicant can track its status through the portal of the distributor where the request was made or through the website of the corresponding regulatory body. Generally, the response time varies between 15 and 30 business days.
Some distributors send notifications via SMS or email informing you of approval, rejection, or the need for additional documentation. Keeping your contact information up-to-date is essential to receiving these updates.
If the request is rejected, it is possible to appeal or update the application with additional information. The beneficiary must keep their registration in the CadÚnico (Single Registry for Social Programs) and with the distributor always up-to-date to avoid losing the benefit.
Common Questions and Problems with the Application
During the application process for the Social Energy Tariff, it is common to encounter difficulties related to registration errors, disputes, or the need to keep data updated. Properly resolving these issues is essential to guarantee access to and maintenance of the benefit.
Solutions for common errors during registration.
Errors in registration usually occur due to outdated or conflicting information in the Unified Registry (CadÚnico) or with energy distributors. In these cases, the first recommended action is to review all personal and family data to confirm the consistency of the information.
If an error is detected in the distributor's system, the consumer should contact them directly through official channels, such as the distributor's toll-free number or in-person service. For problems related to the CadÚnico (Single Registry for Social Programs), the update must be done at the CRAS (Social Assistance Reference Center).
Correctly updating the data prevents the automatic blocking of the Social Tariff, a common procedure by the National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL) when it detects discrepancies.
How to proceed in case of a dispute or appeal.
If the Social Tariff application is denied, the consumer can contest the decision. To do so, they must file an appeal with the responsible distributor, presenting documents that prove eligibility, such as proof of income and an updated registration in the CadÚnico (Single Registry for Social Programs).
It is important to follow the deadlines set by the distributor and respect the rules defined by the National Electricity Regulatory Authority (ENRE) or the National Electricity Regulatory Authority (ENRE), depending on the location.
In case of difficulty, support from consumer protection agencies or contacting ENRE, in regions regulated by this entity, can help clarify doubts and speed up reconsideration processes.
Updating registration information and maintaining benefits.
Maintaining eligibility for the Social Tariff depends on constantly updating registration data in the Unified Registry (CadÚnico) and with the energy distributor. ANEEL (Brazilian Electricity Regulatory Agency) stipulates that incorrect or outdated information may lead to the suspension of the discount.
It is essential that the electricity contract holder periodically checks their registration status. In cases of family changes, change of address, or change of income, the update must be immediate.
To make things easier, many providers allow updates online or by phone. This practice ensures that the benefit remains active without unnecessary interruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Social Energy Tariff offers discounts to families in vulnerable situations, with specific criteria based on income and consumption. Registration is automatic for those already on the Unified Registry, simplifying access to the benefit.
What are the requirements to access the Social Electricity Tariff?
The main requirement is to prove that the family is registered in the Unified Registry and that the per capita income is equal to or less than half the national minimum wage. Individuals receiving the Continuous Benefit of Social Assistance (BPC) are also eligible.
How do I prove my income when registering for the Social Tariff?
Income verification is done through data in the Unified Registry, which must be up-to-date. For other situations, documentation proving family income may be required.
What is the monthly consumption limit to remain in the Social Energy Tariff program?
The free service covers consumption of up to 80 kWh per month. Above this limit, the discount decreases according to the consumption level, until it reaches the maximum allowed limit.
How can I apply for the Social Energy Tariff if I am registered in the Unified Registry?
Since January 2022, inclusion is automatic for those who meet the criteria, with integration between the Ministry of Citizenship and ANEEL (Brazilian Electricity Regulatory Agency). If it is not showing up, you can check with your energy distributor or by calling the provided phone number.
Is there a difference in the discounts applied to the Social Energy Tariff depending on the consumption bracket?
Yes. The discount is greater for lower consumption, being 100% up to the first 80 kWh. As consumption increases, the discount percentage gradually decreases.
What should I do if my Social Energy Tariff benefit is cancelled by mistake?
The family should contact the energy distributor or the agency managing the Unified Registry to request a review of the benefit. It is important to keep documentation and data updated to avoid future interruptions.
