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WGA Phases in Amsterdam: Overview and Explanation

Overview of WGA phases in Amsterdam: duration, benefit, and obligations. Local assistance via UWV, Juridisch Loket (Vijzelstraat 77) and Court (Parnassusweg 220).

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WGA Phases in Amsterdam: Overview and Explanation

The **WGA phases** in Amsterdam determine the duration and conditions of your **WGA benefit** in case of partial work disability. This article provides an overview of the three phases, your rights and obligations, plus local contact points at the Amsterdam District Court (Parnassusweg 220) and Juridisch Loket Amsterdam (Vijzelstraat 77).

What are the WGA phases?

The **WGA benefit** (Work and Income according to Labour Capacity Act) supports Amsterdammers who are partially work disabled and can no longer work full-time. The benefit has three phases with specific rules, laid down in the **Work and Income according to Labour Capacity Act (WIA)**. In Amsterdam, you can go to UWV Amsterdam or the Juridisch Loket at Vijzelstraat 77 with questions.

Legal basis

The WGA rules are based on:

  • Articles 37-42 Work and Income according to Labour Capacity Act (WIA): Basic rules for WGA benefits.
  • Articles 12-15 WIA: Phasing rules and assessment criteria.
  • Disability Insurance Decree (BAO): Practical implementation standards, including income calculations.
In case of disputes, you can litigate at the Amsterdam District Court, Parnassusweg 220.

The three WGA phases: overview for Amsterdam

Below is a table with the phases, duration, benefit amount and obligations. In Amsterdam, UWV offers local reintegration programmes.

Phase Duration Benefit Obligations in Amsterdam
Phase 1: Introductory phase Max. 2 years 70% of average daily wage (max. maximum daily wage).
  • Apply for suitable work via UWV Amsterdam.
  • Cooperate in reintegration, such as workshops in the region.
  • No immediate sanction for refusing a job.
Phase 2: Consolidation phase Max. 3 years 70% of daily wage with wage-related component, possible reduction.
  • Actively seek work, incl. internships with Amsterdam employers.
  • Follow training via UWV or local partners.
  • Refusal of suitable job leads to sanction.
Phase 3: Wage-related benefit / follow-up benefit Up to 10 years or indefinite (depending on situation) Fixed wage-related benefit or follow-up benefit (approx. 35% minimum wage).
  • Full effort in reintegration required.
  • In case of non-cooperation: termination of benefit.
  • Possible transition to social assistance via Amsterdam municipality.

Practical examples from Amsterdam

Two local scenarios:

Example 1: Introductory phase in Amsterdam

Situation: Lisa (42) from Amsterdam-West becomes partially work disabled (50% capacity) after an accident. UWV starts phase 1.

Events:

  • Lisa receives 70% of her daily wage (€2,200 gross/month).
  • UWV Amsterdam draws up a plan with job application training and trial placement.
  • After 18 months reassessment; progression to phase 2.

Example 2: Phase 3 in Amsterdam

Situation: Ahmed (58) from Amsterdam-Noord has been in WGA for 5 years and cannot recover.

Events:

  • Transition to wage-related benefit (35-70% daily wage).
  • Obligation to trial work with local companies.
  • In case of reduction: apply for social assistance at Municipality of Amsterdam or assistance via Juridisch Loket Vijzelstraat 77.

What to do in Amsterdam?

  • Contact UWV Amsterdam for personal assessment.
  • Free advice at Juridisch Loket Amsterdam, Vijzelstraat 77.
  • File objection or appeal at Amsterdam District Court, Parnassusweg 220.
  • Reintegration via Amsterdam employers and UWV programmes.