Wajong Conditions in Amsterdam: What Are the Requirements for You?
The Wajong eligibility criteria determine whether you, as a resident of Amsterdam, qualify for the Wet arbeidsongeschiktheidsvoorziening jonggehandicapten (Wajong benefit). This allowance supports young Amsterdammers who, due to illness or disability, cannot (fully) participate in the workforce. It applies to financial assistance if you became work-disabled before turning 18 or during studies. In this guide for Amsterdam residents, we explain the conditions, including local resources like the Amsterdam Legal Desk. As a supplement to our overview of the Wajong benefit, you’ll discover here when you’re entitled to it and how to access support in Amsterdam.
What Is the Wajong Benefit, and Why Do the Conditions Matter for Amsterdammers?
The Wajong is a cornerstone of Dutch social security, providing benefits to young disabled individuals in Amsterdam who face limited labor market participation. The conditions ensure the scheme applies only to those genuinely eligible, tailored to your personal circumstances in the city. If you fail to meet the Wajong eligibility criteria, no benefit will be granted. The UWV assesses applications based on medical and vocational expertise, with rules varying depending on whether the disability arose before or after 2010/2015. In Amsterdam, you can seek free advice on your situation from the Amsterdam Legal Desk.
Legal Framework of Wajong Conditions for Amsterdam Residents
The Wajong is governed by the Wajong Act, linked to the Wet op de arbeidsongeschiktheidsverzekering (WaO) and the Wet werk en inkomen naar arbeidsvermogen (WIA). Key legal provisions include:
- Article 1 of the Wajong Act: Defines insured persons as those who became work-disabled before age 18 or during education in Amsterdam.
- Article 3 of the Wajong Act: Requires sustained work disability of at least 35%.
- Article 16 of the Wajong Act: Determines benefit levels based on your labor capacity in the region.
The law has undergone changes: the classic Wajong (until 2009), Wajong 2010 (from 2010), and Wajong 2015 (from 2015). These adjustments affect the Wajong eligibility criteria, with a focus on reintegration into Amsterdam’s job market. For up-to-date information, consult the UWV website or our article on social security. Locally, the Municipality of Amsterdam offers additional reintegration programs.
Key Wajong Eligibility Criteria for Amsterdam Residents
To qualify for a Wajong benefit in Amsterdam, you must meet strict requirements. These Wajong conditions ensure fair distribution. Key points at a glance:
- Age and timing of work disability: Disability must occur before age 18, during full-time studies (up to age 30), or a preparatory course in Amsterdam. After age 30, new applicants no longer qualify.
- Work disability: Due to illness, disability, or mental health issues, you are (partially) unfit for work. The UWV quantifies this: for Wajong 2010 and later, at least 35% disability without prospect of recovery, relevant to Amsterdam’s job market.
- Residency and legal stay: You must reside in Amsterdam with valid residency rights. EU citizens may have more flexible rules.
- No double benefits: You cannot receive full WAO, WIA, or Sickness Benefit Act payments simultaneously. Multiple benefits are prohibited.
- Application deadline: Submit within two months after study completion or the end of your illness period. Late applications may lose retroactive effect; the Amsterdam Legal Desk assists with timely submissions.
Under Wajong 2015, the eligibility criteria have been tightened: only full and permanent disability (zero work capacity) entitles you to a basic benefit. Partial disability may qualify for wage supplementation through employment in Amsterdam.
Differences Between Wajong Variations in an Amsterdam Context
The Wajong conditions vary by scheme. Overview in table:
| Scheme | Conditions | Benefit for | Work Allowed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Wajong (pre-2010) | Work-disabled before 18 or during studies in Amsterdam | Partial or full disability | Yes, with income offset |
| Wajong 2010 | Same, plus no recovery prospect | Minimum 35% disability | Yes, benefit reduces with earnings |
| Wajong 2015 | Strict: fully and permanently disabled | No work capacity | Wage top-up for work in the city |
The table illustrates the shift toward stricter rules, with increased emphasis on reintegration through local Amsterdam initiatives.
Rights and Obligations Under Wajong Conditions in Amsterdam
If you meet the Wajong eligibility criteria, you’ll receive approximately 70% of the minimum wage (around €1,100 gross monthly in 2023, varying by case). Work is permitted, with possible supplements, but income counts toward your benefit. Your rights include:
- Reintegration support from the UWV, such as training or workplace adjustments in Amsterdam businesses.
- Protection against dismissal due to disability, backed by local labor advice.
- Right to appeal or object to a rejection, filed with the Amsterdam District Court.
Your obligations are:
- Actively participate in reintegration efforts; otherwise, your benefit may be reduced via UWV monitoring.
- Report changes in health or income within 10 days.
- Proactively seek work if partially employable, with assistance from the Municipality of Amsterdam.
In Amsterdam’s practice, inactivity is not tolerated; the UWV monitors this strictly and offers additional guidance through local partners like the Amsterdam Legal Desk.
Veelgestelde vragen
Wat is mijn retourrecht?
Bij online aankopen heb je 14 dagen retourrecht zonder opgaaf van reden, tenzij de wettelijke uitzonderingen gelden.
Hoe lang geldt de wettelijke garantie?
Goederen moeten minimaal 2 jaar meewerken. Defecten die binnen 6 maanden ontstaan worden verondersteld al aanwezig te zijn.
Kan ik rente eisen over schulden?
Ja, je kunt wettelijke rente eisen (momenteel ongeveer 8% per jaar) over het openstaande bedrag.
Wat kan ik doen tegen oneerlijke handelspraktijken?
Je kunt klacht indienen bij de consumentenbond, de overheid of naar de rechter gaan.
Wat is een kredietovereenkomst?
Een kredietovereenkomst regelt hoe je geld leent, wat de rente is, en hoe je dit terugbetaalt.