What does unemployment benefit (WW) entail?
The WW (Unemployment Insurance Act) provides financial support to employees who lose their job through no fault of their own. This benefit helps you bridge the period between two jobs and gives you the opportunity to search for a new position. The application process is handled by the UWV (Employee Insurance Agency).
Conditions for Unemployment Benefits (WW)
| Condition | Requirement | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Unemployment | At least 5 hours per week | Or loss of at least half of your working hours |
| Availability | Immediately available for work | No obstacles to accepting employment |
| Weekly requirement | Worked 26 out of the last 36 weeks | In the period preceding unemployment |
| No fault of your own | Not personally responsible | No voluntary resignation without valid reason |
| Insurance | Employed under a contract of employment | Not self-employed |
When are you not eligible for WW?
You will not be granted unemployment benefits if:
- You resigned without a valid reason
- Your dismissal was due to your own conduct (urgent cause)
- You are not available for a new job
- You do not meet the weekly requirement
- You were self-employed
Step-by-step guide for application in Leiden
- Register as a job seeker via the UWV website (werk.nl)
- Submit your WW application within 7 days of your last working day
- Log in to Mijn UWV using your DigiD
- Complete the online application form in full
- Attach the requested documents
- The UWV will make a decision within 4 to 8 weeks
Requirements for the application
What do you need to prepare?
- Your DigiD login details
- Recent payslip
- Dismissal documentation or settlement agreement
- Your employment contract
- Contact details of your former employer
Consequences of late application
If you apply for unemployment benefits later than one week after becoming unemployed, the start date of the benefit may be postponed. This means you could miss out on income. In exceptional circumstances, the UWV may show leniency.
Can I receive WW after voluntary resignation?
In most cases, no, unless you can prove there was an urgent reason, such as untenable working conditions.
What if my employer in Leiden goes bankrupt?
In the event of bankruptcy, you can still apply for unemployment benefits. The UWV will take over the payment obligations and may also pay outstanding wages.
Am I entitled to WW after a temporary contract?
Yes, if your temporary contract ends and you meet the conditions, you can apply for unemployment benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions about WW in Leiden
How do I apply for unemployment benefits (WW) in Leiden?
First, register as a job seeker via werk.nl. Then, apply for unemployment benefits within one week of your last working day via Mijn UWV using your DigiD. Make sure to upload all required documents, such as payslips and dismissal papers.What are the requirements for unemployment benefits (WW) in Leiden?
You must be unemployed for at least 5 hours per week or have lost half of your working hours, be immediately available for work, have worked 26 out of the last 36 weeks, not have resigned voluntarily, and have been insured as an employee.Can I receive WW if my employer in Leiden goes bankrupt?
Yes, in the event of bankruptcy, you can apply for unemployment benefits. The UWV will take over the obligations and may pay outstanding wages, even if you live in Leiden.What if I apply for unemployment benefits (WW) too late in Leiden?
If you apply late, your benefit may start later, causing you to miss out on income. In special cases, the UWV may make an exception for residents of Leiden.Which documents do I need for a WW application in Leiden?
You will need your DigiD, latest payslip, dismissal letter or agreement, employment contract, and details of your employer for a WW application in Leiden.Will I receive WW if I live in Leiden and resign voluntarily?
Generally not, unless you have a valid reason, such as poor working conditions, and can substantiate this.Am I entitled to WW after a temporary contract in Leiden?
Yes, if your temporary contract ends and you meet the conditions, you can apply for WW in Leiden. Do this within one week of your last working day.What if I live in Leiden and am not available for work?
If you are not available for work, you generally do not qualify for unemployment benefits. This also applies to residents of Leiden.Legal Support in Leiden
For questions or assistance with your WW application, you can contact the Legal Counter (Juridisch Loket) Leiden, located at Stationsweg 46. Additionally, the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location, handles any disputes regarding unemployment benefits.