What is the Wajong?
The Wajong, or Disability Insurance for Young Disabled Persons Act (Wet arbeidsongeschiktheidsvoorziening jonggehandicapten), provides a benefit to persons who incur a disability or illness before their 18th birthday or during their studies, making work impossible. It serves as a safety net for those who have never been able to perform regular work.
Conditions for Wajong
| Criterion | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Moment of disability | Before the 18th birthday or during study period |
| Work capacity | Currently or in the future unable to earn minimum wage |
| Permanence | No prospect of recovery or improvement |
Types of Wajong
Difference between Old and New Wajong
- Wajong 2010: Exclusively for persons without sustainable work capacity
- Old Wajong (pre-2010): Broader eligibility, benefit dependent on degree of disability
From 2015, the Wajong is only granted to people who have no work capacity at all, permanently.
Amount of the Wajong benefit
- Maximum amount: 75% of the minimum wage
- 2024: Approximately €1,450 gross per month
- Under 21 years: Amount dependent on age
How do I apply for Wajong?
- Submit application to UWV (possible from age 17.5)
- Assessment on medical and occupational grounds
- Decision by UWV within 13 weeks
- If approved: benefit starts from 18th birthday
Combining Wajong with work
The UWV encourages working alongside a Wajong benefit:
- For old Wajong: income is partially offset
- Working always provides financial benefit
- Assistance available in job searching
- Job coaching is an option
What if I become ill after age 18?
In that case, you do not qualify for Wajong, but for other schemes such as Sickness Benefits Act or WIA.
Is a later Wajong application possible?
Yes, if the disability arose before age 18 or during studies, but only leads to incapacity for work later.
Does living together affect my Wajong?
No, the Wajong is a personal benefit and is not affected by your living situation.
Local Information in Utrecht
For legal support in Utrecht, you can go to:
- District Court Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55, Utrecht
Frequently Asked Questions about Wajong
Do I qualify for Wajong?
You may qualify if your disability arose before age 18 or during your studies and you are therefore unable to earn the minimum wage. The UWV conducts a medical and occupational assessment to determine this.
What distinguishes the old from the new Wajong?
The old Wajong (pre-2010) had looser criteria and a benefit based on degree of disability. The new Wajong (post-2010) is only for those who are fully and permanently disabled for work.
Can I work with a Wajong benefit?
Yes, working is encouraged. For the old Wajong, income is offset, but it remains advantageous. Assistance such as job coaching is available via the UWV.
What is the amount of the Wajong in 2024?
The maximum benefit is approximately €1,450 gross per month (75% of the minimum wage). For young people under 21, an adjusted amount applies based on age.