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Sociale Zekerheid

WGA Phases: Overview and Explanation

The **WGA benefit** has three phases for partially disabled persons in Zoetermeer. Learn about the initial period, follow-up and activation phase, your rights, obligations and how to progress to work. Practical tips and local assistance via Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.

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WGA Phases: Overview and Explanation for Zoetermeer

The **WGA benefit** (Work and Income according to Labour Capacity Act) supports partially disabled residents of Zoetermeer. There are **three phases** with changing rights, obligations and opportunities for return to work. This article provides a clear overview, practical examples, frequently asked questions and local support options via Den Haag District Court (Zoetermeer district) and Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.

What are the WGA phases?

For those in Zoetermeer who are **partially disabled** (not 100% ill, but also not fully employable), three phases apply. The emphasis shifts from recovery to work activation. The phases are:

  1. Phase 1: Initial Period (first 2 years after UWV notification)
  2. Phase 2: Follow-up Period (years 2-5)
  3. Phase 3: Activation Period (from year 5)

WGA rules are set out in the **Work and Income according to Labour Capacity Act**. Relevant articles:

  • Article 15: Duration of WGA benefit and phase allocation.
  • Article 20: Your obligations, such as job searching and cooperating in reintegration.
  • Article 21: Enhanced activation in later phases, with UWV checks.
In case of disputes: Den Haag District Court, Zoetermeer district. Free first-line advice: Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer (Stadhuisplein 1, Zoetermeer).

Phase 1: Initial Period (up to 2 years)

Focus on **recovery and stabilisation**. Your benefit depends on **former salary** and **remaining earning capacity**, calculated by the UWV. In Zoetermeer, you can access reintegration via local employers or UWV partners.

Key features

  • Benefit: E.g. 70% disabled = approx. 70% of former salary (max. €2,889 gross/month in 2024).
  • Assistance: UWV, occupational health physician or private insurer provides reintegration (track 1/2).
  • Obligations: Participate in programmes, share medical information (art. 20 WGA).

Zoetermeer example

Case: You worked at a Zoetermeer tech company (€3,500 gross/month) and after burnout are 60% disabled. Phase 1 benefit: approx. €2,100 gross. UWV advises part-time work at local employer + therapy.

Phase 2: Follow-up Period (2-5 years)

Now more **work-oriented**: UWV pushes job applications, training or trial placement. Benefit stable, but non-cooperation = reduction (art. 21).

Differences overview

Aspect Phase 1 Phase 2
Focus Recovery & support Job searching & activation
Benefit 70-100% former salary Same + wage top-up possible
Obligations Cooperate in reintegration Job applications (min. 2x/week), training

Example

After 2 years: UWV Zoetermeer region requires job applications for local jobs (e.g. administration). With part-time work: benefit tops up to 70% former salary.

Phase 3: Activation Period (from 5 years)

**Fixed activation**: Benefit drops to 70% of minimum wage (approx. €1,300 gross 2024) unless you work. Strict UWV checks. Goal: sustainable return to work.

Tips for Zoetermeer

  • Apply locally via Werk Zoetermeer or Indeed.
  • Need help? Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer: call 0900-8020 or visit Town Hall.
  • UWV dispute? Procedure at Den Haag District Court, Zoetermeer location (art. 15-21 WGA).

Frequently asked questions

Can I exit the WGA? Yes, if >65% earning capacity or re-assessment. Contact UWV Zoetermeer.

Last update 2024. Source: UWV & WIA Act. For personal advice: Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.