Find out how Internal Revenue Service is preparing a historic change to the National Register of Legal Entities (CNPJ) from January 2026. This transformation aims to modernize and ensure the continued efficiency of Brazil's company registration system by adopting a 14-position alphanumeric format.
Details of the new CNPJ alphanumeric format
The new CNPJ will remain the same size, but its internal characteristics will be reformulated:
- The first eight positions will be alphanumeric, combining letters and numbers to create the root of the CNPJ, identifying both the parent establishment and its branches.
- The next four positions will also be alphanumeric, indicating the order in which the establishment is registered within the root.
- The last two positions will remain numeric, functioning as check digits to guarantee the authenticity of the CNPJ.
Read more about: How to renegotiate and pay in installments debts with the IRS?
Need for modernization and expansion
The switch to the alphanumeric format is driven by the imminent exhaustion of numerical combinations in the current CNPJ format. With the continued growth of the economy and the increase in the number of companies, this new format offers virtually unlimited registration capacity, allowing the system to keep pace with the country's economic development for many years to come.
Read more about: Complete Guide to Adhering to the DET (Electronic Work Domicile)
Impact on companies
For companies, the transition will be gradual and transparent. Existing CNPJs will not be affected and will remain valid. Adaptation to the new registrations will begin in 2026, and the CLM Controller is ready to offer you all the support you need. Our specialized premium accounting team is ready to guide your company through this significant change.
New: Electronic work address becomes mandatory
Preparing your company with CLM Controller
Keep up to date with the latest updates on the new alphanumeric CNPJ and ensure that your company is prepared for this evolution in the Brazilian business registration system. A CLM Controller is committed to offering customized accounting solutions to optimize your processes and ensure tax compliance. Visit our website for more information and find out how we can help your company prosper in the future.
Spreadsheet
Presumed Profit
eBook
Strategic Planning
Main questions:
Why is the CNPJ changing to an alphanumeric format?
The change is necessary due to the exhaustion of the numerical combinations available in the current format. With economic growth and the increase in companies, the new alphanumeric format offers virtually unlimited registration capacity.
When will this change come into effect?
From January 2026, new CNPJ registrations will adopt the alphanumeric format. Existing CNPJs will not be changed and will remain valid.
How will the new alphanumeric CNPJ be structured?
The new CNPJ will have 14 positions: the first eight will be alphanumeric (letters and numbers), identifying the root of the CNPJ; the next four will also be alphanumeric, indicating the order of registration; the last two will be numeric, acting as check digits.
What are the benefits of the new format for companies?
The alphanumeric format increases security against counterfeiting, modernizes the company registration system by bringing it into line with international standards, and significantly expands registration capacity by avoiding running out of combinations.
How should companies prepare for this change?
Companies should start adapting their systems and processes to the new format, especially those that deal with CNPJ registration and administration. The IRS will provide support and guidance during the transition to ensure that it is smooth and effective.
Simples nacional in the tax reform: what changes?
Simples Nacional in the Tax Reform: what changes? In this article, prepared by the CLM team [...]
Jul
FGTS after the deadline: What are the consequences and how to avoid losses?
Avoid fines and legal risks! Find out how to settle FGTS arrears with practical tips and [...]
Jun
LCI and LCA: what they are and what the new taxation changes
Find out how LCI and LCA work - two fixed income options that [...]
Jun
Real Profit or Presumed Profit: which regime is best for telecommunications companies?
Find out in this article what the differences and similarities are between these two tax regimes? Find out [...]
Jun
Accounting Outsourcing: understand what it is and its advantages
Accounting outsourcing is a strategic solution that consists of fully outsourcing accounting activities [...]
Jun
IOF and Real Profit companies: understand the impacts
In this article, we clearly explain each type of IOF, their current rates and how [...]
Jun
Tax reform 2025: what will change in practice?
The team at CLM Controller Contabilidade has prepared this complete content to answer these and other [...]
Jun
