Sickness Benefits for Flex Workers in Zoetermeer
As a flex worker in Zoetermeer, such as a temp worker or on-call employee at local companies, you can apply for a sickness benefit from the UWV if your employer does not continue paying your salary or pays too little. This safety net provides financial support during your recovery. In this article for residents of Zoetermeer, we explain the rules with local examples and advice from organizations such as Het Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.
What does a sickness benefit mean for flex workers?
The ZW benefit is part of the employees' insurance schemes and is laid down in the Sickness Benefits Act (ZW). It applies to sick employees without continued salary payment from the employer. For flexible workers in Zoetermeer, this is common due to temporary contracts without the standard 70% salary continuation in the first two years (article 7:629 of the Dutch Civil Code). This builds on our general overview of sickness benefits.
Legal framework specific to flex workers
Key legislation includes:
- Sickness Benefits Act (ZW), articles 16-29: determines the right to benefit.
- SUWI: framework for UWV benefits.
- Unemployment Act (WW): if sick during WW benefit, the 'double ZW' (ZWG) applies.
- Dutch Civil Code article 7:629: employer's obligation, often limited for flex workers via collective agreements such as ABU for temp agencies in Zoetermeer.
Temp workers without recent payslips sometimes fall under the 'AOW-inzittende daily wage scheme', which affects the calculation.
Conditions for ZW as a flex worker in Zoetermeer
You qualify if:
- Employment requirement: Work in the 36 weeks before illness.
- Work incapacity: More than 35% incapacitated (assessed by UWV doctor).
- No salary: Less than 70% continuation by employer.
- Residence: In the Netherlands, such as Zoetermeer, or EEA country.
Example from Zoetermeer: Marieke works as an on-call employee in a Zoetermeer restaurant. When she falls ill during her shift, her boss pays nothing. She reports to the UWV and receives ZW based on her daily wage.
Overview by flex type in Zoetermeer
| Type of flex worker | ZW entitlement | Local example |
|---|---|---|
| Temp worker | Yes, without pay from agency | Illness prevents assignment in Zoetermeer: UWV pays benefit. |
| On-call worker | Yes, during call-off period | Contract ends: ZW if sufficient employment history. |
| Payroller | Limited, check collective agreement | Employer often continues pay; otherwise ZW via UWV. |
| Self-employed (ZZP) | No, opt for VWG | No ZW; alternative for self-employed. |
Rights and obligations during ZW in Zoetermeer
Rights:
- 70-91% of daily wage (91% year 1, 70% thereafter).
- UWV reintegration support.
- Dismissal protection after 2 years of illness (via District Court of Zoetermeer in case of dispute).
Obligations:
- Reporting: Within 2 days to employer and UWV.
- Cooperate in recovery (work, therapy).
- Undergo insurance medicine assessment.
- Report changes (new work).
Example: Ahmed, a temp worker at a logistics company in Zoetermeer, is out due to an accident. He submits weekly effort declarations; failure to cooperate stops the benefit.
Application process for flex workers from Zoetermeer
- Report illness in writing to employer (within 2 days).
- Start application on werk.nl with DigiD.
- Attach payslips and contracts.
- Await assessment (6-8 weeks).
Benefit starts from reporting date, retroactively.
Duration and amount of ZW benefit
Duration: Up to 104 weeks, ends earlier upon recovery.
Amount: Based on daily wage. For €200: €182 year 1, €140 thereafter (after premiums). WW combination possible (ZWG).
Frequently asked questions for Zoetermeer
ZW at end of on-call contract during illness?
Yes, with employment requirement. UWV reviews entire employment history.
Temp agency denies entitlement?
Check collective agreement (ABU). No pay = ZW right. Appeal to UWV, or District Court of Zoetermeer if needed.
Own risk period for flex workers?
No, unlike WIA. Reintegration obligation applies.
Decision period for application?
4-8 weeks. Provisional benefit if delayed.
Tips for flex workers in Zoetermeer
- Document: Keep payslips, contracts, and proof of reporting.
- Report immediately: Day 1-2, or face sanctions.
- Seek free advice from Het Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.
- In case of issues: Contact Municipality of Zoetermeer for extra support or District Court of Zoetermeer for appeal.