WW sanctions for breach of job application obligation in Utrecht
If you receive a Utrecht WW benefit, you are obliged to actively seek work. If you breach this **WW job application obligation**, the UWV may impose sanctions such as deduction or suspension of your benefit. These measures motivate you to continue applying for jobs, but they can sometimes be unjustified. In this article for job seekers in Utrecht, we explain what **sanctions** there are, how they work and what your options are for objection or appeal.
What does the WW job application obligation in Utrecht entail?
The **job application obligation** is essential for your **WW benefit**. In Utrecht, you must actively seek work for at least 18 hours per week, by applying for jobs, attending training or seeking internships. The requirements are set out in the Work and Security Act (WWZ) and the Work and Income Regulations (RWI). In Utrecht, the UWV strictly monitors your efforts via Werk.nl and local agreements.
Legal basis for sanctions in Utrecht
The rules for sanctions for breach of the job application obligation are:
- Article 16, paragraph 1, sub b WW: Deduction of the benefit for failure to comply with obligations.
- Article 16, paragraph 2 WW: Partial or full suspension.
- Article 17 WW: First a warning from the UWV.
Overview of WW sanctions in Utrecht
The UWV imposes sanctions depending on the infringement. View the overview:
| Type of sanction | Description | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Official warning | The UWV warns you in writing of shortcomings in Utrecht. | First step, no duration. |
| Deduction of WW benefit | 10-35% reduction on your benefit due to insufficient job applications. | 1-4 months. |
| Full suspension | Benefit is temporarily suspended, but you remain registered. | 1-8 weeks or longer. |
| Restart condition | Proof of job applications required for resumption in Utrecht. | Until you comply. |
When do you receive sanctions in Utrecht?
Sanctions follow for repeated or intentional breaches, such as:
- Showing fewer than 4 job applications per month.
- Failure to attend UWV activities or training in Utrecht.
- Incorrect reports on Werk.nl.
- No response to UWV summonses or appointments.
Example from Utrecht practice
Suppose: you only apply for jobs in Utrecht 2 times per month instead of the required efforts. First, a warning follows. If you continue to fall short? Then 25% deduction for 2 months. Next step: suspension for 4 weeks.
Your rights and appeal options in Utrecht
You have rights in case of sanctions:
- Transparency: UWV must explain the decision and evidence.
- Objection: Within 6 weeks at UWV.
- Appeal: At District Court of Midden-Nederland, Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht.
Tips to prevent sanctions in Utrecht
Log in weekly on Werk.nl, keep job application proofs and respond immediately to UWV contact. In case of problems: make an appointment directly at the Juridisch Loket Utrecht for personal guidance.