Companies will need to reassess their internal policies for meal vouchers and food vouchers, in order to follow the new rules published by the Federal Government. The updated rules were enacted at the end of March, but are already valid. So, you better be aware of these latest changes. Otherwise, offenders can be fined up to R$50,000.
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At the end of March (28), Provisional Measure No. 1,108 and some rules of Decree No. 10,841/21 were amended. The government alleges that these benefits lead to fraud and distortions, such as using vouchers for other purposes.
It is important to note that this decree will only come into force in May of next year, in 2023, however, with the aim of giving companies more time (18 months) to adapt to the new rules.
Meal vouchers and food vouchers have new rules
First, keep in mind that food vouchers (VA) and meal vouchers (VR) are advantages offered by companies to their employees. This is a reward and motivation strategy for workers.
Although the practice is common, these benefits are not mandatory. Therefore, meal or food vouchers are different from transportation vouchers, for example, where the specific circumstances are in the text of the law.
New rules have been established that limit the use of these “voucher” cards in daily practice. From now on, employees will be obliged to use the vouchers to pay only for their food and nothing else. This, of course, varies according to the type of benefit (VR or VA).
previous permissions
Not so long ago, these cards (which were once vouchers) could be used to pay for some services, such as cable TV. In addition, gas stations and other commercial establishments also accept the card.
The Federal Government also stipulates that companies that can use vouchers cannot offer discounts to organizations. According to the Government, there are already tax exemptions that apply only for granting benefits to its employees.
Therefore, it would not be consistent to provide discounts to these companies for implementing a coupon program within their own company. Therefore, those who fail to comply with the rules can be fined up to 50 thousand reais.