How much is an unemployment benefit (WW)?
The amount of your WW benefit depends on your former salary. In the first 2 months you receive 75% of your daily wage, after that it becomes 70%. There is a maximum set for the daily wage.
Calculating the WW Benefit
| Period | Percentage of Daily Wage | Maximum (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| First 2 months | 75% | €274.44 gross per day |
| From month 3 | 70% | €256.14 gross per day |
What is a Daily Wage?
The daily wage is determined based on your SV wage (social insurance wage) in the year before your unemployment:
- Gross annual income, including holiday allowance
- Divided by the number of days in that year
- Maximum daily wage 2024: €274.44
How long do I receive an unemployment benefit (WW)?
Duration of the WW Benefit
| Employment History | WW Duration |
|---|---|
| Minimum (week requirement) | 3 months |
| Per year worked | +1 month |
| Maximum | 24 months |
The duration is determined by your employment history. Each year you have worked yields 1 month of WW benefit, with a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 24 months.
Determining Your Employment History
Your employment history includes:
- Years in which you received salary for at least 52 days
- Years from 1998 are calculated exactly
- Before 1998: you were 18 years or older and not studying
- Certain care years (for example for children up to 5 years) may count
Combining WW with Earning Extra Income
If you work part-time alongside your WW benefit:
- Your income is partially offset against the benefit
- 30% of your earnings may be retained (exemption rule)
- Working alongside WW is always financially advantageous
- Hours worked are deducted from your WW entitlement
How can I calculate my WW benefit?
Use the online tool on uwv.nl. Enter your salary details for an immediate estimate.
What if my income fluctuated strongly?
The UWV bases itself on the average wage over a reference period of 12 months.
Do extras such as a thirteenth month count?
Yes, all components of your SV wage, such as bonuses and holiday allowance, are included in the calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions about WW in Utrecht
Who is eligible for an unemployment benefit (WW)?
You are entitled to a WW benefit if you are unemployed, have paid premiums and are registered with the UWV.
How long can I receive an unemployment benefit (WW)?
The duration depends on your employment history and varies between 3 months and a maximum of 24 months.
What is a social assistance benefit?
A social assistance benefit is financial assistance from the municipality for people who do not have sufficient income to provide for their livelihood.
How do I apply for social assistance in Utrecht?
You can apply for social assistance via the Municipality of Utrecht. You must explain your personal and financial situation.
Am I required to apply for jobs during a WW benefit?
Yes, you must actively seek work and be able to demonstrate this to the UWV.
Help and Contact in Utrecht
For legal questions about your WW benefit, you can go to:
- District Court Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55, Utrecht