What does the WAZO entail?
The Work and Care Act (WAZO) entitles pregnant employees in Leiden and elsewhere to maternity and childbirth leave with a corresponding benefit. This leave comprises at least 16 weeks with retention of salary.
Length of the Leave
| Phase | Duration | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Maternity leave | 4-6 weeks | Before the due date |
| Childbirth leave | 10-12 weeks | After the birth |
| Total | At least 16 weeks | Flexible to plan |
Start of the Leave
Choice in Start Date
You determine yourself when the leave begins:
- Between 6 and 4 weeks before the due date
- Weeks not taken before the birth are added to the period thereafter
How Much Benefit Do I Get?
- Full 100% of your daily wage
- Maximum daily wage in 2024: €274.44
- Payment is handled via the employer or directly by the UWV
Steps for Application
- Inform your employer of your pregnancy (at least 3 weeks before the start of leave)
- The employer submits the application to the UWV
- Attach a statement from your doctor or midwife
- The UWV pays out to the employer or directly to you
Special Circumstances
- Multiple pregnancy: Extra 4 weeks of leave (total 20 weeks)
- Illness during leave: Leave continues to run
- Premature birth: Leave is adjusted and extended
- Hospital admission of baby: Possibility of extra leave
Am I self-employed?
Self-employed persons in Leiden can also apply for a WAZO benefit, directly via the UWV.
Is spreading the leave possible?
Yes, after the first 6 weeks of childbirth leave, you can spread the remaining weeks over a period of 30 weeks.
Do I accrue vacation days?
Yes, during maternity and childbirth leave, you continue to accrue vacation days as usual.
Frequently Asked Questions about WAZO in Leiden
How long does the total leave last?
The leave lasts a total of at least 16 weeks: 4-6 weeks before the birth and 10-12 weeks after. In the case of multiples, you receive 20 weeks in total.
When must I notify my employer?
This must be done no later than 3 weeks before the start of your leave, so that the application can be submitted to the UWV in time.
What is the amount of the benefit?
You receive 100% of your daily wage, with a maximum of €274.44 per day in 2024, via your employer or the UWV.
What if my baby is born prematurely?
In the event of a premature birth, your leave is extended so that you always have at least 16 weeks of leave.
Can I schedule my leave flexibly?
Yes, after the first 6 weeks of childbirth leave, you can spread the rest over a period of 30 weeks.
Contact and Support in Leiden
For legal questions about WAZO, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden at Stationsweg 46. In addition, the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location handles any disputes regarding employment and care.
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