Employee Credit strengthens the economy and promotes financial inclusion.

The Lula government once again demonstrates its commitment to improving the living conditions of the working class by launching the "Worker's Credit" program, a line of payroll-deducted loans aimed at workers in the private sector. This initiative, which allows the use of part of the balance of the Severance Indemnity Fund (FGTS) as collateral, represents a major step forward in democratizing access to credit, benefiting millions of Brazilians who, until now, faced difficulties in obtaining fair financing conditions.

Before the Provisional Measure, payroll-deducted loans were primarily available to public servants and retirees, who benefited from much lower interest rates than private sector workers. With the new measure, it is estimated that there will be a reduction of approximately 40% in interest rates for private sector employees, who will now have fairer and more competitive access to credit. This is fundamental for families to reorganize their finances, pay off expensive debts, and promote consumption in a safer way.

The program's scope also deserves highlighting. Rural workers, domestic employees, and employees of Individual Microentrepreneurs (MEI), who previously did not have access to payroll loans, are now included. The economic impact of this inclusion could be significant, since the forecast is that the volume of credit will triple in the coming years, reaching R$ 120 billion. This amount, when well directed, can be a lever for the Brazilian economy.

Another positive aspect is the ease and transparency of access to credit. Using the Digital Work Card (CTPS Digital) as an application tool speeds up the process and allows workers to analyze different proposals in a short period of time, guaranteeing the power to choose the best option for their financial situation. Furthermore, deducting installments directly from payroll reduces the risk of default, which also contributes to keeping interest rates at lower levels.

But caution is necessary. It is essential that workers are well-informed about the responsible use of this resource. Credit should be an instrument for financial solutions, not for deepening indebtedness. It is up to the government, financial institutions, and representative class entities to ensure the dissemination of clear information about the impacts of loans on family budgets, avoiding financial traps.

"Worker Credit" is a policy that reaffirms the Lula government's commitment to social inclusion and economic development. Giving millions of Brazilians access to cheaper credit means fostering more equitable growth in the country, reducing inequalities and allowing the economy to strengthen with the active participation of the working class. With this measure, those who work win, and Brazil wins too.