Sickness Benefits Exception for Self-Employed in Amsterdam

What does the Sickness Benefits exception entail for self-employed in Amsterdam?

The Sickness Benefits Act (ZW) provides support in case of illness or occupational disability if you cannot work. Self-employed in Amsterdam are generally not insured, because they do not have an employer who pays premiums. But there are exceptions where you as a self-employed person in the capital can receive benefits.

These rules are laid down in the Sickness Benefits Act, WIA and decrees such as the Sickness Benefits Self-Employed Decree 2004. For Amsterdammers, it applies that you must be economically equated to an employee, particularly relevant for local freelancers and starters.

Legal basis in Amsterdam

Important laws for Sickness Benefits exceptions for self-employed:

• Sickness Benefits Act (ZW, Article 1): Basic rules for benefits in case of illness.
• WIA (Article 1.2): Regulates occupational disability and transitions to WIA.
• Sickness Benefits Self-Employed Decree 2004: Specifically for self-employed who paid premiums.
• Amsterdam Social Accord: Local support for entrepreneurs in case of illness.

In Amsterdam, you can object to UWV decisions at Amsterdam District Court, Parnassusweg 220. For free advice: Amsterdam Legal Aid Office, Vijzelstraat 77.

When are you eligible in Amsterdam?

Three core conditions for self-employed in the Amsterdam region:

1. 1. Economically equivalent to an employee

   Paid premiums for at least 12 months via national insurance schemes (AOW/ANW), with demonstrable income from work in Amsterdam and limited assets. Local UWV offices assess this strictly.

   Example: Amsterdam freelancer with €12,000 annual income from assignments in the city.

2. 2. Medically occupationally disabled

   Assessed by UWV insurance physician or AAB. Report to the UWV office in Amsterdam-South.

   Example: Self-employed with chronic pain from work in the construction sector.

3. 3. Insufficient alternative income

   No or too low income from savings, partner or side jobs. Amsterdam rule: benefit covers basic needs.

   Example: Local consultant without buffer after burnout.

How do you apply in Amsterdam?

1. Report illness within 2 days to UWV (online or by telephone).
2. Submit application with medical certificate and proof of income.
3. Visit UWV Amsterdam for intake.
4. In case of rejection: objection at Amsterdam District Court (Parnassusweg 220) or advice from Legal Aid Office (Vijzelstraat 77).

Tips for Amsterdammers: Check local subsidies via Municipality of Amsterdam for self-employed.

Local contact points

• UWV Amsterdam: For applications and assessments.
• Amsterdam District Court: Parnassusweg 220, 1071 AG.
• Legal Aid Office: Vijzelstraat 77, 1017 HJ Amsterdam – Free consultation hours.