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CLT or MEI? Discover How to Work and Entrepreneur Without Losing Unemployment Benefits.
Many people who work with a signed labor card (CLT) wonder if it is possible to open a Microentrepreneur Individual (MEI) without facing complications. The answer is yes, it is possible. However, there are important details about the laws that regulate this combination of jobs that must be considered before making this decision. In this article, we will explain how the relationship between being CLT and MEI works and the impacts this may have on benefits such as unemployment insurance.
What is MEI and How Does It Work?
The MEI is a form of business formalization aimed at small entrepreneurs.
It allows opening a business with low costs and less bureaucracy, making it an excellent option for those who want to start entrepreneurship simply, without complications with the laws that govern other forms of businesses.
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As a legal entity, the MEI has benefits, such as reduced tax payments, facilitating the entry of many people into the business world.
For those who already work under CLT, the possibility of opening a MEI can be an interesting opportunity to supplement income.
It is important to understand that being a MEI is not the same as having a traditional business.
The laws governing MEI are more flexible and allow the entrepreneur to formalize their business without the complex obligations of a larger company.
However, it is necessary for the MEI to meet certain requirements, such as revenue limits, to maintain their status as a microentrepreneur.
Is it Possible to Be CLT and MEI at the Same Time?
Yes, it is possible to be CLT and open a MEI. There is no law prohibiting a worker with a signed labor card (CLT) from becoming a Microentrepreneur Individual.
However, there are implications that you need to understand, especially if you ever need to apply for unemployment benefits.
When you work as CLT and decide to open a MEI, the laws governing both conditions need to be carefully observed.
For those working with a signed labor card and having a MEI, the situation may seem simple at first glance, but there are specific rules about how the revenue of the micro entrepreneur can affect the right to unemployment benefits.
The main concern is with the financial movement within the MEI’s CNPJ, as any revenue can generate complications.
The Relationship Between MEI and Unemployment Benefits
When a worker with a signed labor card decides to open a MEI, they need to be aware that, if they are dismissed, the situation may interfere with access to unemployment benefits.
However, simply opening the MEI does not impede benefits equally to CLT, as long as the micro entrepreneur does not generate revenue. Below, we explain how it works:
- Without Income: If the MEI does not generate revenue and there is no financial movement in their account, the worker may still be entitled to unemployment benefits.
In this case, it is necessary to present a declaration stating that there were no earnings during the period, to prove that the activity did not generate income. - With Income: If the MEI generates any type of revenue, even if low, the worker will not be able to count on unemployment benefits.
Therefore, it is crucial to assess whether this will be a sufficient source of income before opening the business. Financial movement in the CNPJ can hinder the right to unemployment benefits.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Being MEI
Being a MEI brings some considerable advantages, such as reduced tax costs.
The annual value of taxes paid is around R$ 700, which is much cheaper compared to other forms of business formalization, such as Presumed Profit or Simples Nacional, which have much higher rates.
However, the issue of unemployment benefits should be considered. Those who are already CLT and plan to open a MEI should ask themselves: “Do I really need unemployment benefits?” If the answer is affirmative, opening may not be the best option.
On the contrary, if the intention is to earn money as a micro entrepreneur and not depend on unemployment benefits, opening the microenterprise can be an excellent choice.
How to Manage MEI and Keep Everything According to the Laws?
Managing MEI is relatively simple but requires attention to the rules to avoid fiscal and legal complications.
To ensure that the MEI is compliant with the laws and to avoid problems with the Federal Revenue, it is important to seek the help of an accountant.
This professional can provide guidance on the correct management of finances, as well as help make safer decisions regarding the continuity of the system, in case the worker needs to apply for unemployment benefits.
If you are thinking of being CLT and MEI, remember to consider all legal and financial aspects involved. Evaluating whether this will be a viable source of income and if unemployment benefits are truly necessary can help avoid surprises in the future.
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