No-Risk Policy for Employers in Zoetermeer: Safe Hiring with Limitations
The employer's no-risk policy is a UWV scheme that protects employers in Zoetermeer against financial risks when hiring staff with a work limitation or medical history. If the employee falls ill within five years, the UWV covers the wage continuation costs. This promotes inclusive employment, for example for Wajong benefit recipients from Zoetermeer and surrounding neighborhoods.
What Does a No-Risk Policy Mean for Employers in Zoetermeer?
A no-risk policy is not a commercial insurance policy, but a UWV agreement that relieves employers of concerns. For instance, hire a candidate receiving Wajong benefits from Zoetermeer. If that person becomes ill after starting, the UWV takes over the wage costs from day 43 (or day 1 for chronic conditions). The scheme applies for a maximum of five years and can be extended under certain conditions, aligning with local initiatives for labor market participation in the Municipality of Zoetermeer.
This helps Zoetermeer businesses hire 'high-risk' talent without fear, in line with the Participation Act and the Work and Security Act (WWZ).
Legal Basis of the No-Risk Policy
The employer's no-risk policy stems from UWV policy, enshrined in the Work and Income according to Labour Capacity Act (WIA) (Article 42 et seq.) and Sickness Benefits Act (ZW) (Article 28 et seq.). The UWV implements it through the Policy Rules on Wage Continuation during Illness and Reintegration 2018. For Wajong benefit recipients, it applies under the Disability Assistance Act for Young Disabled Persons (Wajong), Article 15a.
Refined since 2021 by the Act Introducing Reintegration Obligations (WIA): apply for the policy via the UWV portal before the employee starts or within four weeks thereafter.
Who Qualifies for a No-Risk Policy in Zoetermeer?
The UWV selects based on target groups:
- Individuals receiving Wajong, WIA, or Sickness Benefits Act benefits.
- Employees who were occupationally disabled shortly before starting work (within two years).
- Individuals with chronic illnesses (more than 85% disabled).
- Refugees with status and benefits.
Example: Lisa from Zoetermeer receives Wajong benefits due to autism. A local company applies for the policy. If she falls ill after three months, the UWV pays the wages from day 43, not the employer.
Difference With and Without a No-Risk Policy
| Situation | Without No-Risk Policy | With No-Risk Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Wage continuation during illness (first 2 years) | Employer pays 70-100% wages | UWV pays from day 43 (day 1 for chronic) |
| Scheme duration | N/A | 5 years, extendable |
| Employer's costs | Full risk | No wage costs during illness |
| Reintegration | Employer's responsibility | Shared with UWV |
Rights and Obligations under a No-Risk Policy
Employer's rights:
- Reimbursement of wage continuation during illness.
- Exemption from the Gatekeeper Improvement Act for this employee.
- Payroll tax credit on UWV reimbursements.
Employer's obligations:
- Report the start of employment to UWV within 2 weeks.
- Carry out reintegration (tracks 1 and 2).
- Archive payslips for UWV inspection.
Employee's rights: Full employment contract protection; dismissal during illness requires UWV approval. Obligations: Actively cooperate in reintegration. For disputes in Zoetermeer: Contact the District Court of Zoetermeer.
Practical example: A Zoetermeer company hires Mark (ex-WIA) with a no-risk policy. After a year of back issues, the employer reports it to UWV; from week 2, Sickness Benefits Act benefits via UWV. After two years, WIA assessment. Without the policy, they would have faced costs exceeding €50,000.
Frequently Asked Questions about the No-Risk Policy in Zoetermeer
Can I apply for a no-risk policy for temporary workers?
Yes, until the end of the contract or max. 5 years. Extend chain contracts via UWV.
What if the employee is already ill at the start?
Day 1 reimbursement for recurrences within 5 years, otherwise day 43. Check UWV status.
Does the policy expire after 5 years?
Yes, but it can be extended if target group membership continues; UWV decides.
Do I need to inform the employee?
Not mandatory, but transparency builds trust. Mention it in the contract.
Tips for Employers in Zoetermeer
Make optimal use of the employer's no-risk policy:
- Application: Via Mijn UWV for Employers, free and quick (decision within 2 weeks).
- Document medical information, start of employment, and reports.
- Combine with wage cost subsidy via Municipality of Zoetermeer (up to 75% for Wajongers).
- For questions: Zoetermeer Legal Aid Office or UWV advice.
- Read more: Working with Wajong in Zoetermeer, Wajong Benefits in Zoetermeer or Sickness Benefits.
Tip: Check the UWV target group list and consider bulk applications for multiple hires. The no-risk policy lowers barriers to inclusion in Zoetermeer.