How does the service time bonus work in public companies?
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THE additional for length of service in public companies It is a fundamental right for public servants and employees of state-owned companies, functioning as legal recognition for dedication and permanence in public service.
Unlike the private sector, where similar benefits depend on collective agreements, in the public sector this additional benefit is regulated by specific laws, such as Law No. 8,112/1990, ensuring transparency and legal certainty.
But how exactly is it calculated?
What are the rules for granting it?
And how does it impact compensation and retirement?
In this article, we'll explore all the details of this benefit, from its legal basis to practical examples of how it applies in large public companies, such as Petrobras, Banco do Brasil, and Correios.
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Additionally, we'll discuss recent controversies, the financial impacts over the career, and how it compares to other private sector incentives.
What is the Additional Service Time Bonus?
THE additional for length of service in public companies It is a progressive bonus granted to public servants and employees as a way of valuing their experience and reducing turnover.
It is calculated based on the basic salary and increases in pre-defined percentages according to the length of service, generally every five years.
This mechanism is especially relevant in careers with slower progression, where it can take years for employees to achieve significant salary promotions.
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A clear example is the federal employee who, after completing five years, receives a 5% increase.
With each new five-year period, the percentage increases, reaching 30% after 25 years of work.
In addition to improving monthly remuneration, this additional payment also forms the basis for calculating retirement, increasing the value of the social security benefit in the future.
Legal Basis and Regulation
The Federal Constitution (Art. 39, §3) establishes that public servants must have rights equivalent to those of private sector workers, including benefits for length of service.
Law No. 8,112/1990 details the rules for federal employees, while state-owned companies follow internal regulations approved by their boards of directors.
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A relevant fact: according to the Personnel Statistical Bulletin (2024), more than 70% of active federal employees receive some type of additional for length of service in public companies, proving its importance in civil service remuneration.
Some companies, such as Eletrobras, have even more advantageous rules, with higher percentages or shorter time intervals for granting the benefit.
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In cases such as Caixa Econômica Federal, there are discussions about including temporary workers in the calculation, showing that the issue is constantly evolving.
How does the calculation work?
The calculation of the additional amount follows a progressive structure, generally based on five-year periods.
The table below illustrates the most common model in the federal public service:
| Length of Service | Percentage Increase |
|---|---|
| 5 years | 5% |
| 10 years | 10% |
| 15 years | 15% |
| 20 years | 20% |
| 25 years or older | 30% |
To understand this in practice, imagine a civil servant with a basic salary of R$ 5,000.00 and 15 years of service. Their additional salary will be R$ 750.00 per month (15% of R$ 5,000.00).
It is worth noting that some public companies adopt different criteria, such as Petrobras, which grants annual bonuses in addition to the traditional additional payment.
Impact on Career and Retirement
This benefit not only increases monthly remuneration, but also directly influences the value of retirement, as it is included in the INSS calculation basis.
Furthermore, in many career paths, length of service is a criterion for internal promotions, making the bonus even more strategic.
A civil servant who completes 25 years of service, for example, may have a salary increase of 30%, which represents a significant difference in the long term.
On the other hand, anyone who leaves public service before completing a five-year period loses the right to the benefit, reinforcing the importance of permanence.
Practice in Large Public Companies
- Bank of Brazil
- A manager with 10 years of experience receives an additional 10% on top of the basic salary.
- If the salary is R$ 10,000.00, the increase will be R$ 1,000.00 per month.
- A postman with 20 years of service is entitled to an additional 20%.
- With a salary of R$ 4,000.00, the benefit adds R$ 800.00 to the salary.
Comparison Between Public and Private Companies
While in the private sector performance bonuses and profit sharing are more common, the additional for length of service in public companies It works as a mechanism for valuing experience in long-term careers.
This difference reflects the distinct nature of labor relations: while the private sector prioritizes immediate results, the public service recognizes the ongoing contribution to the State.
A study by IPEA (2024) shows that 82% of public servants consider this additional benefit a decisive factor for remaining in their career, compared to only 35% of private sector workers in relation to similar benefits.
Trends and Reforms under Discussion
Currently, the National Congress is debating proposals to unify the rules of additional for length of service in public companies, aiming to reduce disparities between different categories.
One of the ideas under consideration is the creation of a ceiling for the benefit, similar to what already exists for other advantages in the public service.
Experts argue that, although important, the additional amount needs to be balanced with the financial sustainability of state-owned companies.
Meanwhile, unions are advocating for the benefit to be expanded, arguing that it is essential for attracting and retaining talent in the public sector, especially in highly specialized technical fields.
Conclusion
THE additional for length of service in public companies It is a fundamental pillar of civil service remuneration, balancing legal security and professional recognition.
Its impact goes beyond monthly salary, influencing retirement and career progression, making it a differentiator for those seeking stability.
For more information, consult official sources such as Transparency Portal and the Federal Legislation.
Frequently Asked Questions on additional time of service in public companies
1. Is the additional payment for length of service cumulative?
Yes, it increases progressively with length of service, generally every five years.
2. Are temporary workers entitled to the benefit?
It depends on the company. In some state-owned companies, only employees receive the bonus.
3. Does the additional amount count towards retirement?
Yes, it is included in the INSS calculation basis.
4. If I change positions, do I lose my rights?
No, as long as you remain with the same public company.
