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Sickness Benefits Recovery Obligation: Your Duties During Illness

Under the **Sickness Benefits Act (ZW)** in Amsterdam, a **recovery obligation** applies: you must do everything to recover quickly. What are your obligations? How do you respond to a return-to-work plan from your employer? Learn everything about the recovery obligation, with local info for Rechtbank Amsterdam (Parnassusweg 220) and Juridisch Loket Amsterdam (Vijzelstraat 77).

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Sickness Benefits Recovery Obligation: Your Duties During Illness in Amsterdam

In Amsterdam, if you are ill without an employer, you can apply for a Sickness Benefits allowance (ZW) from the UWV. A core condition is the recovery obligation: you must reasonably do everything to recover as soon as possible. This is stipulated in the law and is crucial for your benefit. What does this mean for you in practice, especially if your former employer calls you back? We explain it, with attention to local institutions such as the Rechtbank Amsterdam (Parnassusweg 220) and the Juridisch Loket Amsterdam (Vijzelstraat 77).

What Does the Recovery Obligation Entail Under Sickness Benefits in Amsterdam?

The recovery obligation requires you as a ZW beneficiary in Amsterdam to actively contribute to recovery so that you can work again. Concretely, this means:

  • Following the instructions of your GP, specialist or physiotherapist in Amsterdam.
  • Cooperating with rehabilitation or a UWV return-to-work trajectory.
  • Avoiding actions that hinder recovery, such as ignoring therapy without a valid reason.
  • Reporting your situation to the UWV and (ex-)employer, including limitations.
This obligation is regulated in Article 40 Sickness Benefits Act and Article 41 Awbz. Non-compliance? Then you risk withdrawal of your benefit by the UWV office in Amsterdam.

Legal Basis: The Rules at a Glance

The recovery obligation is based on:

  • Sickness Benefits Act Article 40: Obligation to cooperate in recovery; UWV in Amsterdam may demand information on your progress.
  • Awbz Article 41: Following medical advice, such as rehabilitation at an Amsterdam centre.
  • Sickness Benefits Implementation Decree Article 2.10: Providing medical data or recovery plan to UWV Amsterdam.
The UWV may impose recovery measures, e.g. consultation at an Amsterdam rehabilitation clinic. Refusal without excuse leads to suspension. In case of dispute: to Rechtbank Amsterdam, Parnassusweg 220.

Practical Examples of Recovery Obligation in Amsterdam

Here are concrete cases from Amsterdam practice:

Example 1: Refusing Physiotherapy

Situation: After surgery at AMC, you refuse physio in Amsterdam-Zuid. Consequence: UWV Amsterdam may suspend your benefit. Appeal possible at Rechtbank Amsterdam if medical contraindication can be demonstrated. Free advice: Juridisch Loket Amsterdam, Vijzelstraat 77.

Example 2: Rejecting Employer's Recovery Plan

Situation: Former employer offers phased return, approved by occupational health service. You refuse. Consequence: Obligation if reasonable plan; otherwise benefit stops. Obtain medical counter-advice via Amsterdam GP.

Example 3: Ignoring UWV Requests

Situation: UWV Amsterdam requests updates on recovery; you do not respond. Consequence: Sanction or withdrawal. Always respond and in case of doubt go to Juridisch Loket Amsterdam (Vijzelstraat 77) for free legal consultation hours.

What if Your Employer Wants You Back in Amsterdam?

If your Amsterdam employer proposes a recovery or work resumption plan, you must cooperate if it is appropriate. In doubt? Request a second opinion or involve the UWV. In case of conflict: mediation or to Rechtbank Amsterdam, Parnassusweg 220. Strengthen your position with file building and professional advice.

Local Assistance in Amsterdam

  • Rechtbank Amsterdam: Parnassusweg 220, for appeals against UWV decisions.
  • Juridisch Loket Amsterdam: Vijzelstraat 77, free initial advice on ZW and recovery obligation.
  • UWV Amsterdam: Make an appointment for personal guidance.

Comply with the recovery obligation to avoid problems. Questions? Contact Juridisch Loket directly.