Comportamento do MEI na utilização de serviços financeiros: Identificação da percepção do empreendedor sobre facilitadores, barreiras e os seus impactos em Solânea- PB

Abstract

The formalization of the Individual Microentrepreneur (MEI) promoted significant productive inclusion in Brazil; however, the sustainability of these small businesses requires constant and efficient interaction with the financial system. Given this scenario, the present study aims to analyze the behavior and perception of MEIs in the commercial sector of Solânea-PB regarding the use of financial services and the impacts of this interaction on the sustainability of their businesses. Methodologically, the research is classified as qualitative, of an applied nature, and exploratory, conducted through a field study. Data collection occurred through semi-structured interviews applied to 18 local microentrepreneurs, whose reports were processed using Bardin's Content Analysis technique. The results reveal a duality in the financial routine: while payment technologies, such as Pix and card machines linked to fintechs, act as facilitating pillars for the daily "oxygenation" of cash flow, access to credit faces severe bureaucratic barriers and information asymmetry from large traditional banks. Furthermore, a strong deficit in financial literacy was observed, leading the manager to adopt a reactive posture, using banking services for emergencies to "put out fires" rather than planning strategically. It is concluded that the impact of this dynamic configures a structural paradox, creating a "glass ceiling" that traps the merchant in basic operations and limits safe, long-term growth. The study highlights the need for institutional debureaucratization and practical investments in financial education for the development of local commerce.