Combating Fraud in Disability Benefit Claims in Zoetermeer

Fraud related to disability benefit claims (WIA/WAO) in Zoetermeer is rigorously combated through the external fraud information system of the Employee Insurance Agency (UWV) and local insurers in the Haaglanden region. Suspicious cases, such as undeclared employment at Zoetermeer-based companies or falsified medical certificates from general practitioners in the city, result in the suspension of benefits and the reclamation of paid amounts. The SUWI Act mandates reporting to the Public Prosecution Service in The Hague for criminal offences. Insurers in Zoetermeer, active around the Stadshart and buyZoetermeer businesses, employ risk models and data analysis for early detection. Criminal sanctions include fines up to €82,000 (Article 359 of the Dutch Criminal Code) and imprisonment. The UWV Fraud Signal Register shares information with the Social Insurance Bank (SVB), Tax and Customs Administration, and local benefit agencies. Victims in Zoetermeer can lodge an objection and appeal through administrative law at the court in The Hague. The Insurers' Fraud Signaling Code regulates uniform procedures. Prevention focuses on fair labour reintegration, with particular attention to Zoetermeer employers in sectors such as IT and logistics. Case law from the Central Appeals Tribunal (CRvB) emphasises the burden of proof resting with the insurer. In 2023, UWV halted 15% more benefits due to fraud, with peaks in regions like Zoetermeer due to stricter controls. Privacy is governed by the GDPR, including Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIA), aligned with local GDPR supervision. Entrepreneurs receiving Sickness Benefits risk higher premiums via UWV Zoetermeer. Experts recommend compliance training for local HR departments. This system protects premium payers in Zoetermeer from abuse and supports the local economy.