How much is an unemployment benefit?
The amount of your unemployment benefit in Zoetermeer is determined by your last earned salary. In the first two months you receive 75% of your daily wage, after that it becomes 70%. There is a maximum amount established for the daily wage.
Calculate unemployment benefit
| Period | Percentage of daily wage | Maximum amount (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| First 2 months | 75% | €274.44 gross per day |
| From month 3 | 70% | €256.14 gross per day |
What does daily wage mean?
Your daily wage is determined based on your social insurance wage (SV-wage) in the year preceding your unemployment:
- Gross annual income including holiday allowance
- Divided by the number of days in that year
- Maximum daily wage in 2024: €274.44
How long do I receive unemployment benefit?
Duration of the unemployment benefit
| Employment history | WW duration |
|---|---|
| Minimum (week requirement) | 3 months |
| Per year worked | +1 month |
| Maximum duration | 24 months |
The length of your unemployment benefit is determined by your employment history. Each year you have worked counts for an extra month of unemployment benefit, with a minimum of 3 months and a maximum of 24 months.
How is employment history calculated?
Your employment history includes:
- Years in which you received salary for at least 52 days
- From 1998 this is calculated exactly
- Before 1998: you were 18 years or older and not in education
- Certain care years (for example for children up to 5 years) may count
Combining unemployment benefit with earning extra income
If you work part-time while receiving unemployment benefit:
- Your extra income is partially offset against your benefit
- 30% of your additional earnings may be retained (exemption rule)
- Working alongside unemployment benefit is always financially advantageous
- Hours worked are deducted from your unemployment benefit entitlement
How can I calculate my unemployment benefit?
Use the online calculation tool on the UWV website. Enter your salary details for an estimate of your benefit.
What if my income fluctuated strongly?
The UWV bases itself on the average income over a reference period of 12 months.
Does a thirteenth month count towards my daily wage?
Yes, all income falling under the SV-wage, such as a thirteenth month, is included in the calculation.
Frequently asked questions about unemployment benefit in Zoetermeer
Who is eligible for an unemployment benefit?
You are entitled to an unemployment benefit if you are unemployed, have paid premiums, and are registered with the UWV.
How long can I receive an unemployment benefit?
The duration depends on your employment history and varies between 3 months and a maximum of 24 months.
What is a social assistance benefit?
A social assistance benefit is financial assistance from the municipality of Zoetermeer for people who do not have enough income to provide for their livelihood.
How do I apply for social assistance in Zoetermeer?
You apply for social assistance via the municipality of Zoetermeer. You must demonstrate your personal and financial situation.
Am I required to look for work during my unemployment benefit?
Yes, you must actively apply for jobs and be able to prove this to the UWV.
Contact and Help in Zoetermeer
For legal questions about your unemployment benefit, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer. For cases that go to court, Zoetermeer falls under the District Court of The Hague.