WML Payslip in Amsterdam: Requirements and Content
A WML payslip complies with the Minimum Wage and Minimum Holiday Allowance Act (WML) and is essential for Amsterdammers to verify whether their employer pays the statutory minimum wage, including holiday allowance. Employers in Amsterdam must provide this information transparently. In this city with many hospitality and retail jobs, this article offers local tips, examples, and advice from organizations like the Legal Aid Office Amsterdam.
What is a WML Payslip for Employees in Amsterdam?
The WML payslip not only shows the wage but also proves compliance with the minimum wage under the WML. Employers in Amsterdam are required to provide a clear specification monthly, especially for temps and on-call workers aged 21+ in sectors like tourism and retail. Standard payslips often fall short; extra details on hourly rate, hours worked, and allowances are needed to confirm the minimum is met. Violations can lead to fines from the Netherlands Labour Inspectorate (Inspectie SZW), and Amsterdammers can seek help from the Legal Aid Office Amsterdam.
Legal Requirements for WML Payslips in Amsterdam
The WML sets the foundation:
- Article 7 WML: Specification of wages, deductions, and net pay on the payslip.
- Article 8 WML: Calculation of minimum wage including gross pay, holiday allowance, and compensations.
- Article 12 WML: Hourly, daily, or weekly wage; from 1 January 2024, €13.27 per hour for those 21+.
Reference to Dutch Civil Code Book 7, Article 7:655 for payslip obligations. The Netherlands Labour Inspectorate enforces strictly in busy cities like Amsterdam, with fines up to €4,000. For basic info: see our article on Mandatory Details on the Payslip.
Essential Elements on an Amsterdam WML Payslip
A correct WML payslip must include these mandatory items:
| Details | Description | Legal Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Pay Period | From/to dates | Art. 7 WML |
| Gross Pay | Total pay including allowances | Art. 8 WML |
| Hours Worked | Total including overtime | Art. 12 WML |
| Hourly or Daily Rate | Minimum €13.27 (2024) | Art. 12 WML |
| Holiday Allowance | Min. 8% of pay | Art. 15 WML |
| Deductions | Tax, premiums, etc. | Art. 7(2) WML |
| Net Pay | Amount to be paid out | Art. 7 WML |
| Identification | Employee and employer numbers | DC 7:655 |
Provide digitally or on paper, retain for 7 years. For issues in Amsterdam: contact the Municipality of Amsterdam or Legal Aid Office.
Amsterdam Practice Examples of WML Payslips
Example 1: Full-time Employee in Amsterdam Shop
Jan (Kalverstraat shop) works 40 hours/week at €13.50/hour. Payslip: 173.33 hours, gross €2,340, holiday allowance €187, net €1,800. Exceeds WML comfortably.
Example 2: On-Call Worker in Hospitality Below Minimum
Sara (20 irregular hours at €12/hour) earns €240 gross, below WML. Employer must top up and adjust payslip; otherwise invalid.
Example 3: Temp at Events
Michel receives €13.27/hour + allowance. Payslip separates base and extras, total above minimum – ideal for checks in Amsterdam.
Rights and Obligations Regarding WML Payslips in Amsterdam
Rights of Amsterdammers:
- Full payslip monthly.
- Report defects to Netherlands Labour Inspectorate or Legal Aid Office Amsterdam.
- Claim back pay up to 1 year for underpayment.
Employer Obligations:
- Always provide WML-compliant payslips.
- Correct errors.
- Explain to employees.
For disputes: Amsterdam District Court or union. See also dismissal law and collective bargaining agreement rights.
Frequently Asked Questions about WML in Amsterdam
Must the payslip be on paper in Amsterdam?
No, digital via secure portal is sufficient.
Below minimum wage?
Employer must pay the difference and correct; fine pending.
Applies to interns?
No, except regular employees 21+.
How to check?
Compare with government.nl; help via Legal Aid Office Amsterdam.
Tips for Amsterdammers
Employees:
- Retain payslips for 7 years.
- Check WML monthly via government calculator.
- In doubt? Visit Legal Aid Office Amsterdam (free advice).
Employers: Use software for compliance; check with Municipality of Amsterdam on local rules.