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WGA Phases Utrecht: Overview and Explanation for Central Netherlands

WGA phases Utrecht: complete overview of the 3 phases, duration, benefit and obligations. Practical examples and contact details Court of Central Netherlands + Legal Aid Office Utrecht.

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WGA Phases: Overview and Explanation

The **WGA phases** in Utrecht determine how long and under what conditions you receive a **WGA benefit** in case of partial work incapacity. This article provides a clear overview of the three phases, your rights and obligations, and practical steps for residents of Utrecht.

What are the WGA Phases in Utrecht?

The **WGA benefit** (Work and Income according to Labor Capacity Act) is intended for residents of Utrecht who are partially work disabled and can no longer work fully. The benefit is divided into three phases, regulated in the **Work and Assistance Act (WWB)** and **Disability Insurance Act (WAO/WGA)**. The District Court of Central Netherlands (Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht) handles objections in this regard.

Legal Basis for Utrecht

The WGA phases are regulated in:

  • Articles 37-42 Work and Assistance Act (WWB): General WGA rules.
  • Articles 12-15 Disability Insurance Act (WAO/WGA): Phasing.
  • Disability Insurance Decree (BAO): Implementation rules and calculations.
  • District Court of Central Netherlands, Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht: Handles WGA objections.

The Three WGA Phases: Overview for Utrecht

The WGA benefit has three phases with different durations and conditions. Contact the Legal Aid Office Utrecht (Catharijnesingel 55) for free advice.

Phase Duration Benefit Obligations in Utrecht
Phase 1: Introductory Phase Maximum 2 years 70% of your previously earned income (max. maximum daily wage).
  • Active job search via UWV Utrecht.
  • Participate in local reintegration programs.
  • No direct job acceptance obligation.
Phase 2: Follow-up Phase Maximum 3 years 70% of previous salary with gradual reduction.
  • Actively seek work in Utrecht and surroundings.
  • Training/internship via UWV or Municipality of Utrecht.
  • Refusal of suitable job: reduction possible.
Phase 3: Reduction Phase Maximum 5 years Gradual reduction in steps of 10% per year to 0%.
  • Mandatory reintegration in Utrecht.
  • Refusal of job/activities: benefit stops.
  • After reduction: apply for social assistance benefit via Municipality of Utrecht.

Practical Examples Utrecht

Two examples specific to Utrecht situations:

Example 1: Introductory Phase in Utrecht

Situation: Jan (45) from Utrecht-East becomes partially work disabled after back surgery. He can work 50%. UWV Utrecht awards WGA phase 1.

What happens?

  • Jan receives €2,500 gross (70% old salary).
  • UWV Utrecht draws up reintegration plan with jobs in Utrecht.
  • After 2 years: assessment by UWV. Progression to phase 2 if insufficient recovery.
  • In case of objection: District Court of Central Netherlands, Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1.

Example 2: Reduction Phase Utrecht

Situation: Marie (55) from Kanaleneiland has been in WGA for 5 years. Despite reintegration via UWV and Municipality of Utrecht, she cannot work fully. She starts phase 3.

What happens?

  • Benefit reduction: 60% → 50% → 40% → 30% → 20% → 10% → 0%.
  • Obliged to participate in Utrecht work programs.
  • After 0%: apply for social assistance benefit at Municipality of Utrecht.
  • Free advice: Legal Aid Office Utrecht, Catharijnesingel 55.

Important Contacts Utrecht

  • UWV Work Company Utrecht: CatharijneSingel 48, 3511 GC Utrecht
  • District Court of Central Netherlands: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, 3511 LC Utrecht
  • Legal Aid Office Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55, 3511 GC Utrecht (free legal advice)
  • Municipality of Utrecht: social assistance benefit after WGA reduction

Tips for Residents of Utrecht

  • Make an appointment immediately at Legal Aid Office Utrecht for WGA decisions.
  • Keep all UWV correspondence for possible objection procedure.
  • Consider wage subsidy via UWV Utrecht for partial work.