Combining WW Benefit with Part-Time Work in Leiden: Rules and Pitfalls

In Leiden, with its vibrant university and lively labour market in sectors such as education, biotech and hospitality, many unemployed persons find part-time work during their WW period. Think of side jobs at cafés around the Leiden city centre or flex work at university facilities. This can be financially advantageous, but it affects your benefit via the UWV office in Leiden. The WW is adjusted based on your new income, so that you do not double-dip.

Key Rules

You may work part-time as long as you comply with the job search obligation, for example by applying for vacancies in Leiden via Werk.nl or local portals such as Leidse Banenmarkt. Report any new job immediately to the UWV office at Bargelaan 4 in Leiden. The benefit is reduced by 70% of your new wages (after deduction of own risk). Working weeks count towards the duration of your WW entitlement, offering additional opportunities in the Holland Rijnland region.

Calculation in Practice

Suppose: your daily wage is €150, WW benefit €100 per day. With part-time wages of €70 per day from a side job in a Leiden café, your benefit becomes €30 per day (100 - 70% of 70). Take into account the partner test: if your partner has income, for example at Leiden University, this may affect your benefit. Make an appointment at the UWV in Leiden for a precise calculation.

Avoiding Pitfalls

Avoid undeclared work, such as cash-in-hand jobs in Leiden hospitality; this leads to recovery and fines up to €5,000. Update changes within one week via the UWV portal or by telephone. Participate in local reintegration programmes, such as those of Werkplein LH via the municipality of Leiden, to prevent sanctions. This way, you maximise income without risks in the region. Always consult UWV Leiden for personal advice. (248 words)