Calculating WGA Phases in Utrecht: Your Benefit and Work Capacity
With a WGA benefit in Utrecht, your work capacity is assessed in phases. Discover how the calculation works, what it means for you and where you can get help in Utrecht.
If you are partially work disabled in Utrecht and receive a WGA benefit, the UWV assesses your work capacity in three phases. These phases are based on the Work and Income according to Labour Capacity Act (WIA) and determine your entitlement to benefit and the amount thereof. This article explains how the WGA phases work, how your benefit is calculated and where you can find support in Utrecht.
What are the WGA phases?
The WGA phases are a system by which the UWV in Utrecht assesses to what extent you can still work despite your limitations. The phases are:
- Phase 1: Wage-related benefit — You can earn less than 65% of your old wage due to illness.
- Phase 2: Wage-supplement benefit — You can work but earn less than 65% due to illness, with at least 50% work disability.
- Phase 3: Follow-up benefit — You work or can work, but earn less due to illness.
These phases determine your benefit amount and how much you may earn additionally. In Utrecht, you can go to the UWV office or local reintegration agencies for guidance.
Legal Basis in Utrecht
The WGA phases are regulated in the WIA:
- Article 42 WIA — Wage-related benefit.
- Article 43 WIA — Wage supplement.
- Article 44 WIA — Follow-up benefit.
- Article 45 WIA — Additional earnings.
For objection or appeal in Utrecht: District Court Midden-Nederland, Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht. Free advice at Juridisch Loket Utrecht, Catharijnesingel 55.
How are WGA Phases Determined in Utrecht?
UWV Utrecht assesses based on medical examination, work history and regional labour market. An insurance physician and labour expert establish your limitations and residual earning capacity.
Assessment Steps
- Medical examination by UWV physician in Utrecht.
- Job and education analysis.
- Labour market scan for Utrecht region.
- Classification into WGA phase with benefit calculation.
Practical Examples of WGA Phases in Utrecht
Examples tailored to Utrecht:
| Phase | Description | Utrecht Example | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | No or minimal work | You work at a Utrecht distribution centre but after injury can no longer do heavy work (<65% capacity). | 70% daily wage, max 2 years. |
| Phase 2 | Partial work with supplement | Office worker Utrecht: can work half days, earns 55% of old wage. | 70% of difference old-new wage. |
| Phase 3 | Follow-up benefit when working | Self-employed in Utrecht centre: earns €800/mth due to illness instead of €2000. | 35% daily wage or follow-up obligation. |
Calculating Benefit in Utrecht
Formula Phase 1: 70% x (average daily wage) x 21.75 (month factor).
Phase 2: 70% x (old wage - new wage).
In Utrecht: check via UWV Calculator or call UWV Utrecht.
Help in Utrecht
- UWV Utrecht: For application/assessment.
- District Court Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1 (appeal).
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55 (free advice).
- Local reintegration: e.g. via Werkzaak Utrecht.
Contact UWV for personal calculation. Keep all medical documents!