Werkloosheidsuitkering

Werkloosheidsuitkering, commonly abbreviated WW-uitkering, is a Dutch unemployment benefit provided under the Werkloosheidswet (WW). It offers income support to workers who become unemployed through no fault of their own and who are available for work. The benefit is administered by the Uitvoeringsinstituut Werknemersverzekeringen (UWV) and financed as part of the Dutch social security system through employer contributions.

Eligibility requires that you have been employed for a sufficient period and have paid the WW insurance, that your unemployment is involuntary, and that you register as a jobseeker with UWV. You must be willing and able to work and actively seek employment, and you must meet residency or identity requirements. Applications are typically submitted online through UWV using DigiD, with information about previous employment and earnings.

The amount of the WW benefit is calculated as a percentage of the worker’s last earned income, up to a maximum daily wage. The exact percentage and the duration depend on the length of the insured employment and other factors; in general, longer insured periods lead to longer benefit duration. Benefits are paid for a period determined by the insured period, up to a statutory maximum.

Recipients must comply with obligations such as actively seeking work and participating in reintegration or training measures. If you start earning income while receiving WW, the benefit can be reduced or suspended in proportion to earnings. Non-compliance or misreporting can lead to sanctions or loss of benefits.