What is the My House My Life program?
O My House My Life is a housing program created by the Federal Government to facilitate access to housing for Brazilian families, especially those with lower incomes.
Since its launch, it has benefited millions of people across the country.
Its main objective is to offer decent housing at affordable prices, through subsidies, reduced interest rates and facilitated financing.
The program was relaunched with a bang in 2023, with new income brackets and even more favorable conditions.
One of the biggest advantages is the possibility of financing even for those with informal income, which opens the doors for many Brazilians who work independently, without a formal employment contract.
Furthermore, Minha Casa, Minha Vida is not just a housing program — it represents dignity, security, and the construction of a better future for families who have always dreamed of having a place of their own.
Who can participate and what are the requirements?
Many people believe that the program is complicated or that it doesn't meet the requirements. But the truth is that the criteria are simpler than they seem, and a large portion of the population can indeed benefit.
The program is divided into income bands, which determine the type of benefit and the form of financing:
- Track 1: Families with a monthly income of up to R$ 2,640.
- Track 2: Families with income between R$ 2,640.01 and R$ 4,400.
- Track 3: Families with income between R$ 4,400.01 and R$ 8,000.
In addition to income, other criteria are considered:
- Be over 18 or emancipated.
- Not owning property in your name anywhere in Brazil.
- Not having received benefits from previous housing programs.
- Have registration on CadÚnico (Single Registry for Social Programs) for Band 1.
Even who does not have a formal contract You can participate. If you're self-employed, work for yourself, drive for a ride-hailing app, or sell food or clothing, you can prove your income through other means—such as bank statements or tax returns.
How housing finance works
Financing through Minha Casa, Minha Vida is done through Federal Savings Bank, which analyzes the family profile and offers specific payment conditions.
The main ones benefits of financing they are:
- Reduced interest, from 4.0% per year for Track 1.
- Payment term of up to 35 years, which greatly reduces the value of the installments.
- Possibility of using the FGTS to make a deposit on the property.
- Government subsidy, which can reach up to R$ 55 thousand depending on the income bracket.
Installments are calculated based on family income. In many cases, the installment amount is less than the value of a rent, which makes financing even more viable.
Another positive point is that the program allows the acquisition of new, used or under construction properties, and there are also popular housing projects planned especially to serve families benefiting from the program.
Steps to acquiring your own home through the program
Getting your own home through Minha Casa, Minha Vida is a process that involves organization, patience and informationBelow, see a simple and clear step-by-step guide:
1. Check your household income:
Calculate the total monthly income of all family members who contribute financially. This will determine your bracket in the program.
2. Update or create your CadÚnico:
For those in Band 1, you must be registered with the Single Registry. Simply find the CRAS (Social Assistance Reference Center) in your city.
3. Gather personal documents and receipts:
Have your ID, CPF, proof of residence, proof of income, birth or marriage certificate, and children's documents, if any, on hand.
4. Simulate your financing:
You can do an online simulation on the website Federal Savings Bank or visit an agency.
5. Choose the property:
Look for projects eligible for the program. Some properties are already financed directly with government subsidies.
6. Sign the contract:
After approval, you sign the contract with Caixa and start paying the installments.
7. Get the keys to your new home:
With the contract signed, the property is released to you and your family begins a new stage!
Practical tips for organizing your finances
We know that for many families, the biggest challenge is not the dream — it's the walletSo, here are some realistic and practical tips to help you get your finances in order:
- Create a family budget: List all your monthly income and expenses. This helps you visualize where your money is going.
- Cut unnecessary expenses: It could be that weekly delivery or subscriptions you barely use.
- Create a reservation for entry: Even with subsidies, you may need a starting amount. Start small, but start.
- Avoid debt while organizing your purchase: A clean record is essential to obtain financing.
- Use the FGTS, if you are entitled to it: It can be used for down payment, amortization or settlement.
With organization, what seemed distant becomes possible. And remember: every small saving is one more step towards your own home.
Testimonials and stories from families who have succeeded
Real stories inspire. Here are some experiences of families who achieved homeownership through Minha Casa, Minha Vida:
Silvana, 38 years old, daily worker – Recife (PE):
"I thought I'd never leave my rental. I work as a housekeeper and was always told I needed a formal employment contract. One day, a social worker advised me to contact the CRAS (National Registry of Social Security). I signed up for CadÚnico (São Paulo State Registry), entered Faixa 1 (Band 1), and in less than a year, I received the keys to my apartment. It was the happiest day of my life!"
José and Maria, couple with two children – Belém (PA):
"We lived in a back room at my mother-in-law's house. When we found out we could use our FGTS (Unemployment Fund) and that the installments would be under R$1,400, we went for it. Today we have our own little place, and our children have a room all to themselves. It was worth every bit of effort."
These stories show that the first step is to believeThe second is to seek information. The rest is persistence.
Myths and truths about My House, My Life
Many people give up on trying because of misinformation. Let's dispel the main myths:
- “You need to have a clean name.”
✅ Partial truth. Having restrictions can make things difficult, but there are cases where the program allows for renegotiation and guidance with Caixa. - “Only those with a formal employment contract can participate.”
❌ Myth. Self-employed and informal workers can participate, as long as they prove their income through other means. - “The houses are of low quality.”
❌ Myth. Properties undergo inspections and adhere to government-mandated quality standards. There are excellent projects. - “It takes many years to achieve.”
❌ Myth. In some cities, the process is faster than you might think, especially for properties that are already built. - “I can’t sell the property later.”
✅ Partial truth. During the term of the contract, specific rules apply. However, afterward, negotiations are possible.
Conclusion
Owning your own home isn't just about having a roof over your head—it's about creating roots, security, and belonging.
The My House, My Life program represents a open door for those who always believed that this dream was too distant.
And the truth is that, with organization, information and support, this dream is closer than it seems.
If you've made it this far, you've already taken the first step. The next step is yours. Talk to your family, plan ahead, contact the CRAS (National Health Service), and run a simulation.
The journey to homeownership starts with action — and you're ready for it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I finance a property through Minha Casa, Minha Vida even if I am self-employed?
Yes! Simply prove your income through bank statements, tax returns, or receipts.
2. Does the program serve people who live anywhere in Brazil?
Yes, Minha Casa, Minha Vida is valid throughout the country, with specific projects in each region.
3. Do I need to make a deposit on the property?
In many cases, yes. However, the amount can be reduced by using FGTS and subsidies.
4. Is it possible to use the program to buy used property?
Yes, as long as the property complies with the rules and is approved by Caixa.
5. Can I finance even if I have a bad credit rating?
Having a clean credit history makes the process easier, but in specific cases, there are alternatives. Seek guidance directly from Caixa.