The minimum inclusion income (VMI) is a social assistance benefit granted to families and single persons in difficulty, in order to prevent and combat poverty and the risk of social exclusion.

VMI is a benefit provided in Law no. 196/2016 regarding the minimum inclusion income and has two components:

1. SUPPORT FOR INCLUSION

• This component aims to prevent and combat poverty and the risk of social exclusion and replaces the social assistance previously granted to ensure the minimum guaranteed income.

2. SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN

• This component is granted to families with dependent children up to the age of 18 and aims to prevent poverty and encourage children's participation in education, replacing the family support allowance.

A family or a single person can benefit from one component or both, depending on the available income, family composition, status as an elderly person, or children's participation in education.

To access VMI, it is necessary to submit a single application, regardless of whether the family/single person will benefit from one or both components of this social assistance benefit. Also, VMI is granted through a single monthly payment, whether it is for one or both of its components.

VMI is not limited to granting an amount of money. This aid includes an integrated package of support measures in key areas, such as: employment, social services, education, health and housing, all contributing to reducing the risk of poverty and social exclusion.