Don't go to CRAS or INSS without seeing this list of documents.

Check out the document checklist for Bolsa Família, INSS, Auxílio Gás, and other benefits. Avoid being sent back home.

Reason #1 for denied benefits application

Most people who leave without resolving anything at CRAS, INSS, or other agencies didn't do so because they lacked the right to the benefit... It was because they lacked the... correct document.

“"I arrived in line at 6 a.m. and had to come back another day."”
“"I forgot one of my children's documents, and the service was not completed."”
“"The clerk asked for proof of current address, which I didn't bring."”

📝 A clear checklist solves this before you leave home.

What you will find in this checklist

List of basic documents that are almost always requested;
Specific checklist for Bolsa Família / CadÚnico;
Checklist for INSS benefits (retirements, BPC, etc.);
Checklist for Gas subsidy and other subsidies;
Tips for getting everything organized before leaving home.

Quick summary: which documents should you separate first?

CPF of all those who will be included in the registry;
Document with photo (ID card or similar);
Recent proof of residence (water, electricity, telephone);
Birth or marriage certificates (when applicable);
Proof of income (employment record book, pay stubs or statement).

These are the most common ones. Below, you'll see a detailed checklist for each benefit.

Document checklist by benefit type

✅ Bolsa Família / CadÚnico

Taxpayer Identification Number (CPF) and National Identity Card (RG) of the family head;
CPF, RG or birth certificate of everyone who lives in the house;
Recent proof of address;
Proof of income (if applicable);
School declaration for children/teenagers, in some cases.

✅ INSS Benefits

CPF (Brazilian taxpayer ID) and photo ID;
Proof of contributions (payment card, payment booklets, receipts);
Updated medical reports and certificates (for disability benefits);
Proof of residence;
Documents proving length of service, when necessary.

✅ Gas Assistance and other social assistance

CPF (Brazilian taxpayer ID) and photo ID;
Proof of residence;
Proof of registration in the CadÚnico (Single Registry for Social Programs);
In some cases, additional documents may be requested by the municipality.

Mistakes that cause service to be refused.

Only bring a photo of the document on your cell phone when they ask for the original;
Do not bring children's documents to CadÚnico/Bolsa Família appointments;
Using a very old proof of residence;
Forgetting to include a medical report in disability benefit applications;
Not having any proof of income or declaration.

✅ If in doubt, bring extra documents. It's better to have too many than too few.

Quick questions about documents

📌 Can I bring a digital document?

Some services accept physical evidence, but many still require it. Bring both if you can.

📌 Do I need to bring documents for everyone in the house?

For CadÚnico and Bolsa Família, generally yes. Bring contributions from everyone who lives together.

📌 Can the proof of residence be in someone else's name?

Yes, as long as it's someone who lives in the same house. In some cases, they may ask for additional explanation.

Download or save your document checklist now.

Before leaving home, check the complete list of required documents for each benefit.

This content is for informational purposes only. Requirements may vary by city, state, and type of benefit. Always confirm directly with the CRAS (Social Assistance Reference Center), INSS (National Institute of Social Security), or official government channels.