What is the WGA?
The WGA (Return to Work Partially Work Incapacitated Persons) supports people who are partially work incapacitated or who may be able to work more in the future. The aim is to remain in work as much as possible, also in Utrecht.
The Three Steps of the WGA
| Step | Moment | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Wage-Related (LGU) | Initial Period | 70% of the WIA monthly salary |
| Wage Supplement (LA) | After LGU, with work | 70% of difference old-new income |
| Follow-up Benefit (VU) | After LGU, without work | Percentage AO x minimum wage |
How Long Does the Wage-Related Benefit Last?
The duration of the LGU is determined by your employment history:
- Minimum 3 months
- For each year worked: +1 extra month
- Maximum 24 months
Working is Rewarded
Wage Supplement versus Follow-up Benefit
After the first phase, working makes a big difference:
- With work: Wage supplement up to 70% of your former salary
- Without work: Follow-up benefit based on minimum wage
In Utrecht, working is therefore strongly encouraged!
Example of a Calculation
Suppose: your monthly salary was €3,000 and you are 50% work incapacitated:
- Remaining earning capacity: €1,500
- Current income: €1,000
- Wage supplement: 70% x (€3,000 - €1,000) = €1,400
- Total income: €1,000 + €1,400 = €2,400
Obligations with a WGA Benefit
- Search for suitable jobs
- Participate in reintegration programmes
- Report changes in income
- Cooperate with reassessments
What if I can work fully again?
In that case, your WGA benefit ends. You may qualify for a WW benefit.
Can my WGA transition to IVA?
Yes, if your health deteriorates and you become fully and permanently work incapacitated.
What if my employer is a self-insurer?
Then your (former) employer is responsible for the WGA benefit and your reintegration process.
Frequently Asked Questions about WGA in Utrecht
How long do I receive the wage-related WGA benefit?
The duration depends on your employment history: minimum 3 months, plus 1 month per year worked, with a maximum of 24 months. The UWV in Utrecht will calculate this for you.
What if I find a new job during my WGA?
With work, you transition to wage supplement (LA), where you receive 70% of the difference between old and new salary. Always report this to the UWV.
How is my WGA benefit determined?
The calculation is based on your remaining earning capacity and new income. With an old salary of €3,000 and 50% work incapacity, with €1,000 new salary, you receive a supplement of €1,400 (70% of €2,000).
Help in Utrecht
For legal support, you can go to:
- District Court of Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55, Utrecht