How does the Rural Maternity Allowance work? 

The benefit paid is equivalent to one minimum wage, according to the amount stipulated by the government in the current year, and lasts between 4 and 6 months, depending on the situation. 

Who can claim the Rural Maternity Allowance? 

This benefit is intended for women working in rural areas. This is the first requirement for applying for the benefit. In addition, people who: 

• If they take time off work for the following reasons: birth of a child, non-criminal abortion, adoption or legal guardianship for adoption purposes 
• Apply for the aid up to 5 years after the dates of the situations mentioned above 
• Proof of at least 10 months as an optional individual contributor, i.e. self-employed or special rural insured person 

What is required to receive the aid? 

Once rural workers meet the requirements or fall within the special conditions, they will have to prove that they work in the countryside. Although there is no need to provide proof of INSS payments, the worker will need to prove to the Social Security system that she works in rural areas. This means that they will need to prove that they have worked in rural areas for at least 10 months, which can be done by presenting a number of documents. Check them out: 

• Work permit with CLT registration 
• Lease or agricultural partnership contracts 
• Income tax return indicating rural activity 
• Documentation issued by the rural workers' union 
• School transcripts showing enrollment in rural schools 
• Invoices for deposits, crop sales or purchases of production inputs 
• Collection of social security contributions on agricultural products 
• Collection of rural taxes 

In addition, you will need to present all the documentation relating to the pregnancy or adoption, as required. The basic documents are: 

• Birth certificate (in case of pregnancy) 
• Prenatal care document 
• Adoption guardianship (in the case of adoption) 

How do I apply for the Rural Maternity Allowance? 

If you meet all the criteria, you can apply. You can apply for Rural Maternity Allowance at an INSS office or online. 

Before going to a branch, it's best to call 135 - the INSS Call Center - to schedule an appointment. The online channels are quick and practical. Simply access the Meu INSS application or website, log in and click on "New Request". 

Then search for "Rural Maternity Allowance", fill in the necessary information and attach the documents proving your pregnancy, birth or adoption, as well as the documents relating to rural work. 

After sending it in, you will have to wait for the INSS to analyze it, which takes an average of 45 calendar days.