End-of-Year Payment and Exclusion for Minimum Wage in Utrecht

In Utrecht, many employees receive an end-of-year payment at the end of the year, also known as a thirteenth month's pay. But what happens if you work for the minimum wage? Is this payment then included in your salary or does it fall outside of it? This article discusses the legal rules surrounding end-of-year payments and the exclusion for minimum wage, specifically tailored to residents of Utrecht.

According to Dutch legislation, an end-of-year payment may in some cases be kept outside the minimum wage, provided this is explicitly stipulated in a collective labour agreement (cao) or employment contract. For Utrecht residents working in sectors such as hospitality or retail – industries that are strongly represented in our city – this can play an important role. Do you have questions about your situation? The Juridisch Loket Utrecht, located at Catharijnesingel 55, offers free advice on employment law issues. They can help you understand your rights and obligations.

Additionally, it may happen that employers in Utrecht create uncertainty about the calculation of your wages. If you suspect that your end-of-year payment is unjustly included in your minimum wage, you can submit a case to the Rechtbank Midden-Nederland, located at Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1. This court regularly handles employment disputes from the Utrecht region and can issue a binding ruling on your situation.

The Municipality of Utrecht also provides support to residents who have difficulty understanding their payslip or employment conditions. Via the municipal website, you can find information about local initiatives and contact social service providers who can assist you further. Whether you live in Overvecht, Kanaleneiland, or the city centre, it is important to be aware of your rights as an employee in Utrecht.

In summary: always check your employment contract and collective labour agreement (cao) to see if your end-of-year payment falls outside the minimum wage. In case of doubt, you can rely on the expertise of local institutions such as the Juridisch Loket Utrecht or the Rechtbank Midden-Nederland. This way, you are assured of a fair wage, even during the holidays in our beautiful Domstad.