What is the Wajong?
The Wajong (Wet arbeidsongeschiktheidsvoorziening jonggehandicapten) [Disability Insurance for Young Disabled Persons Act] provides financial support to people who incur a disability or illness before age 18 or during their studies, making work impossible. It serves as a safety net for those who have never been able to perform regular work.
Conditions for Wajong
| Criterion | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Moment of disability | Before age 18 or during study period |
| Work capacity | Currently or in the future unable to earn minimum wage |
| Permanence | No prospect of recovery |
Different Wajong Schemes
Old versus New Wajong
- Wajong 2010: Only for fully and permanently disabled persons
- Old Wajong (pre-2010): Broader access, benefit dependent on degree of disability
From 2015, the Wajong is exclusively for people with no sustainable earning capacity whatsoever.
Amount of the Wajong Benefit
- Maximum: 75% of the minimum wage
- 2024: Approximately €1,450 gross per month
- Under 21 years: Amount dependent on age
How do I apply for Wajong?
- Submit application to UWV (possible from age 17.5)
- Assessment on medical and occupational grounds
- UWV decision within 13 weeks
- If approved: benefit starts on 18th birthday
Combining Wajong with Work
The UWV encourages working with a Wajong benefit:
- For old Wajong: income is partially offset
- Working always provides a benefit
- Assistance available for job searching
- Job coaching as an option
What if I become ill after age 18?
In that case, you fall under the standard schemes such as Sickness Benefits Act or WIA, not Wajong.
Is later awarding of Wajong possible?
Yes, if the disability arose before age 18 or during studies, but only later caused occupational disability.
Does living together affect my Wajong?
No, Wajong is a personal benefit and independent of living circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wajong in Leiden
Who is eligible for Wajong?
You are entitled to Wajong if your illness or disability began before age 18 or during your studies and you are thereby unable to earn the minimum wage. This must be permanent, without prospect of improvement. The UWV assesses this.
What distinguishes old and new Wajong?
The old Wajong (pre-2010) had more lenient rules and a benefit based on degree of occupational disability. The new Wajong (post-2010) is only for fully and permanently occupationally disabled persons, with a maximum of 75% minimum wage.
May I work with a Wajong benefit?
Yes, working is encouraged. For the old Wajong, earnings are partially offset, but it remains advantageous. Assistance such as a job coach is available. Contact UWV for advice.
What is the amount of Wajong in 2024?
The maximum benefit in 2024 is approximately €1,450 gross per month (75% minimum wage). For young people under 21, an age-related scale applies.
Help and Contact in Leiden
For legal support, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden at Stationsweg 46. For Wajong matters, you can also contact the UWV. Disputes are handled at the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location.