How much is the WW unemployment benefit?
The amount of your WW unemployment benefit is determined by your last earned salary. In the first two months you receive 75% of your daily wage, thereafter 70%. A maximum daily wage applies.
Calculating the WW Unemployment Benefit
| Period | Percentage of Daily Wage | Maximum (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| First 2 months | 75% | €274.44 gross per day |
| From month 3 | 70% | €256.14 gross per day |
What is meant by Daily Wage?
Your daily wage is determined on the basis of your social insurance wage (SV-wage) in the year preceding your unemployment:
- Gross annual income, including holiday allowance
- Divided by the number of days in that year
- Maximum daily wage 2024: €274.44
How long do I receive WW?
Duration of the WW Unemployment Benefit
| Employment History | WW Duration |
|---|---|
| Minimum (week requirement) | 3 months |
| Per year worked | +1 month |
| Maximum duration | 24 months |
The duration of your WW unemployment benefit depends on your employment history. Each year you have worked yields one month of WW, with a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 24 months.
How is Employment History Determined?
Your employment history includes:
- Years in which you received salary for at least 52 days
- From 1998 to present: exact calculation
- Before 1998: you were 18+ and not in education
- Care years (for children up to 5 years) sometimes count
Combining WW with Earning Extra Income
Do you have a part-time job alongside your WW unemployment benefit?
- Income is partially offset
- 30% of your extra earnings remains exempt
- Working is always financially advantageous
- Worked hours are deducted from your WW entitlement
How can I calculate my WW unemployment benefit?
Use the calculation tool on the UWV website. Enter your salary details for an immediate estimate.
What if my income fluctuated strongly?
The UWV calculates your daily wage based on the average income over a reference period of 12 months.
Does a year-end bonus count towards my daily wage?
Yes, all income falling under the SV-wage, such as a thirteenth month, is included in the calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions about WW in Leiden
Who is eligible for a WW unemployment benefit?
You are entitled to WW if you are unemployed, have paid premiums and are registered with the UWV.
What is the duration of a WW unemployment benefit?
The duration varies from 3 months to 24 months, depending on your employment history.
What is meant by social assistance?
Social assistance is financial support from the municipality for those who do not have sufficient income to provide for their livelihood.
How do I apply for social assistance in Leiden?
You can apply for social assistance via the municipality of Leiden. Provide the required information and demonstrate that your income is insufficient.
Am I required to apply for jobs during WW?
Yes, you must actively seek work and be able to demonstrate this to the UWV.
Help and Contact in Leiden
For legal questions about WW unemployment benefits, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden at Stationsweg 46. For cases that go to court, the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location has jurisdiction.