Becoming a Microempreendedor Individual (MEI) is one of the best ways for small entrepreneurs in Brazil to formalize their businesses and pay lower taxes. The process is free, simple, and fully online. In this article, we’ll walk you through each step of the MEI registration process and explain how to legally reduce your tax burden.
Why Register as an MEI?
Choosing the MEI category offers multiple advantages:
✅ Low Taxes – A fixed monthly payment (between BRL 70.60 and BRL 76.60) replaces multiple business taxes.
✅ Legal Security – An official CNPJ allows you to work legally and issue invoices (Notas Fiscais).
✅ Social Security Benefits – Access to retirement, sick leave, and maternity leave through INSS.
✅ Simplified Bureaucracy – No need for an accountant, and all tax payments are made through a single DAS boleto.
Now, let’s go through the step-by-step registration process.
Step 1: Check If You Qualify for MEI
To register as an MEI, you must:
✔ Have an annual revenue of up to BRL 81,000.
✔ Not be a partner or owner of another company.
✔ Have only one employee, who must receive the minimum wage or the category’s salary.
✔ Operate in an approved professional category (over 400 professions qualify).
Step 2: Gather the Required Information
Before starting the registration, make sure you have:
📌 Your CPF (Brazilian individual tax ID).
📌 Your RG (Identity Card) or CNH (Driver’s License).
📌 Your address and business location.
📌 Your phone number and email.
📌 Your gov.br account login (if you don’t have one, create it at gov.br).
Step 3: Register Online for Free
Follow these steps to register as an MEI:
1️⃣ Go to the Portal do Empreendedor (www.gov.br/mei).
2️⃣ Click on “Formalize-se” to start the registration.
3️⃣ Log in using your gov.br account.
4️⃣ Fill in your personal and business information, including the type of activity you will perform.
5️⃣ Confirm the details and submit your application.
6️⃣ Receive your CNPJ and MEI Certificate instantly!
Step 4: Understand Your Monthly Tax Payment (DAS)
As an MEI, you must pay a fixed monthly tax (DAS) by the 20th of each month. The amount varies depending on your business sector:
- Commerce and Industry: BRL 70.60 (ICMS included)
- Services: BRL 75.60 (ISS included)
- Commerce + Services: BRL 76.60
💡 Tip: Set up automatic payments to avoid late fees!
Step 5: Start Operating Your Business Legally
After registering, you can:
✔ Issue invoices (Notas Fiscais) to your clients.
✔ Open a business bank account using your CNPJ.
✔ Apply for business credit and financing.
✔ Access social security benefits after 12 months of contributions.
Final Tips to Reduce Tax Costs as an MEI
🔹 Keep your revenue under BRL 81,000/year to remain in the MEI category.
🔹 Pay your DAS tax on time to avoid fines and legal issues.
🔹 Use a business bank account to separate personal and professional finances.
🔹 If your business grows, plan a smooth transition to Simples Nacional to avoid unexpected tax increases.
By following these steps, you can legally reduce taxes and operate with financial security as an MEI in Brazil.
