CLT or PJ the best path for your career

ByRegina Souza

When deciding between CLT or PJ, many professionals are unsure about which hiring model is most advantageous.

The choice depends on several factors, such as financial security, benefits, flexibility and tax burden.

In this article, you will understand the differences between CLT (Consolidation of Labor Laws) and PJ (Legal Entity), in addition to the advantages and challenges of each, helping you to define the best path for your career.

What is CLT?

THE CLT (Consolidation of Labor Laws) It is the traditional hiring regime in Brazil, guaranteeing workers a series of rights and benefits provided for in labor legislation. Those who work under the CLT regime have a formal employment relationship with the company and receive a fixed monthly salary, in addition to labor rights.

Main benefits of the CLT regime

  • FGTS (Service Time Guarantee Fund): The company deposits 8% of the employee's salary into a linked account at Caixa Econômica Federal every month, which can be withdrawn in specific cases, such as unfair dismissal or retirement.
  • 13th salary: Extra payment made at the end of the year, proportional to the time worked.
  • Paid vacation: The worker has the right to 30 days of rest per year, with an additional one third of the salary.
  • Maternity and paternity leave: Benefit granted to parents upon the birth or adoption of a child.
  • Unemployment insurance: Temporary financial assistance paid by the government in the event of unfair dismissal.
  • Health plan and additional benefits: Some companies offer health plans, food vouchers and other incentives.

Despite these benefits, CLT workers also need to pay some discounts, such as INSS and Income Tax, which can significantly reduce their net salary.

What is PJ?

To be PJ (Legal Entity) means to act as service provider, without an employment relationship with the contracting company. In this model, the professional opens a CNPJ and issues invoices for the services provided.

Main advantages of the PJ regime

  • Higher pay: Without the mandatory discounts of the CLT, the professional can negotiate a higher salary, since the employer does not need to pay labor charges.
  • Autonomy and flexibility: The PJ worker has greater freedom to define his/her working hours, choose clients and manage his/her own work.
  • Lower tax burden: Depending on the tax regime chosen, taxes may be lower than the CLT discounts.
  • Possibility of working on more than one project: Unlike the CLT, where there is exclusivity, the PJ can provide services to several companies at the same time.

On the other hand, there are significant challenges in opting for this regime.

Disadvantages of the PJ regime

  • Lack of labor rights: There is no FGTS, 13th salary, paid vacations, unemployment insurance or maternity leave.
  • Tax and accounting liability: The professional needs to pay taxes, issue invoices and do the accounting for his business.
  • Financial insecurity: As there is no guaranteed stability or benefits, the professional needs to create a financial reserve to deal with periods without contracts or eventualities.

CLT or PJ: which is best for your career?

The answer depends on your professional profile and what you are looking for in the future. Below, we analyze different scenarios to help you make your decision.

1. Are you looking for stability and benefits? Choose CLT

If your priority is financial security, guaranteed benefits and stability, the CLT regime may be the best choice. It is ideal for those who have a more conservative profile and want to grow within a company in the long term.

2. Do you want more freedom and higher earnings? PJ may be ideal

For professionals who want more autonomy and are willing to manage their own careers, the PJ regime may be more advantageous. If you have a good network and can secure recurring contracts, you can benefit financially by working as a PJ.

3. Do you have a hybrid profile? Consider a middle ground

Many professionals choose to act as PJ and CLT at the same time, maintaining a steady job while providing services to other companies as freelancers. This model can be an excellent alternative for those who want security and, at the same time, experience the flexibility of self-employment.

Financial aspects: how much do you earn in each regime?

To better understand the differences between CLT and PJ, let's analyze a practical example.

Suppose a professional receives a proposal of R$ 10,000 as a PJ and another of R$ 7,000 as a CLT.

Under the CLT regime, this salary will have the following approximate discounts:

  • INSS (11%): R$ 770.00
  • Income Tax: R$ 945.00
  • Net salary: R$ 5,285.00

Under the PJ regime, the professional needs to pay taxes such as:

  • Simple National (6%): R$ 600.00
  • Accountant and administrative fees: R$ 300.00
  • Net salary: R$ 9,100.00

Although the net salary is higher in the PJ regime, it is essential to remember that the professional needs to set aside money for unforeseen events, vacations and retirement.

When deciding between CLT or PJ: the best path for your career, take into account the following factors:

  • Professional profile: Do you prefer stability or freedom?
  • Financial situation: Do you have an emergency fund to deal with fluctuations in work?
  • Career perspective: Do you want to grow within a company or do you prefer to have multiple clients?
  • Tax planning: Which regime allows for better financial and tax management?

If you are looking for security and benefits, the CLT is the best option. If you prefer autonomy, higher pay and have an entrepreneurial profile, the PJ may be more advantageous. Regardless of your choice, financial planning and understanding the pros and cons of each regime are essential for professional success.

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