WGA Phases in Zoetermeer: Overview and Explanation

The **WGA phases** in Zoetermeer determine how long and under what conditions you receive a **WGA benefit** in case of partial work incapacity. This article provides a clear overview of the three phases, your rights and obligations, and local support via the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.

What are the WGA Phases in Zoetermeer?

The **WGA benefit** (Work and Income according to Labor Capacity Act) is for residents of Zoetermeer who are partially work disabled and can no longer work fully. The benefit has three phases with different durations, amounts, and obligations, regulated in the **Work and Assistance Act (WWB)** and **Work Disability Insurance Act (WAO/WGA)**. For questions, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.

Legal Basis for Zoetermeer

The WGA phases are laid down in:

Articles 37-42 Work and Assistance Act (WWB): Basic rules for WGA benefits.
Articles 12-15 Work Disability Insurance Act (WAO/WGA): Specific phase rules.
Work Disability Insurance Decree (BAO): Practical rules for calculation and implementation.
Rechtbank Den Haag (Zoetermeer district): Competent court for objections and appeals.

The Three WGA Phases: Overview for Zoetermeer

Below is an overview of the WGA phases as they apply to residents of Zoetermeer:

Phase	Duration	Benefit	Obligations in Zoetermeer
Phase 1: Introduction Phase	Maximum 2 years	70% of your average salary before illness (max. maximum daily wage).	Actively seek work via UWV and local jobs in Zoetermeer. Cooperate with UWV reintegration or municipal programs. No direct obligation to accept a job.
Phase 2: Follow-up Phase	Maximum 3 years	70% of former salary with possible wage supplement.	Actively apply for jobs and participate in training/internships. If refusing suitable work: sanctions possible. Contact Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer in case of problems.
Phase 3: Run-out Phase (or follow-up benefit)	Until retirement	Wage-related benefit or follow-up benefit (on average 70% of minimum wage).	Full cooperation with reintegration is mandatory. Apply for social assistance benefit at Municipality of Zoetermeer if needed. Rechtbank Den Haag for objections against decisions.

Practical Examples for Zoetermeer Residents

Two examples specifically for residents of Zoetermeer:

Example 1: Introduction Phase in Zoetermeer

Situation: Pieter (48) from the Palenstein neighborhood is declared partially work disabled (50% work disabled) after an accident.

What happens?

Pieter receives 70% of his former salary (€2,200 gross/month).
UWV draws up a reintegration plan focusing on jobs at local companies.
After 2 years, reassessment; if insufficient results, proceed to phase 2.
Pieter can seek free advice at Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer (Stationsplein 99).

Example 2: Run-out Phase in Zoetermeer

Situation: Fatima (52) from Seghwaert has been in WGA for 5 years and can only work 30%.

What happens?

She receives a follow-up benefit of approximately 70% of the minimum wage.
Municipality of Zoetermeer offers participation trajectories via WerkSaam.
In case of sanctions, objection can be lodged with Rechtbank Den Haag, Zoetermeer team.

Local Support in Zoetermeer

Important contact points:

Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer: Stationsplein 99, 2711 HE Zoetermeer (Mon-Wed-Fri 9:30-12:30).
Municipality of Zoetermeer Work & Income: For social assistance after WGA run-out.
Rechtbank Den Haag, Zoetermeer location: For objection and appeal documents.
UWV Region West: For WGA assessments and reintegration.

Practical Tips for Zoetermeer WGA Recipients

Always lodge an objection within 6 weeks against UWV decisions.
Consult Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer before appealing to Rechtbank Den Haag.
Participation in local reintegration increases chances of employment and prevents sanctions.
In phase 3: report to the municipality in time for social assistance benefit.