Understanding WIA Benefits: WGA and IVA
After two years (104 weeks) of illness, your employer generally no longer has to pay your wages. If you are still ill and cannot work, you may be eligible for disability benefits through a WIA benefit from the UWV. The Labour Capacity Act (WIA) includes two different types of benefits: the WGA (Partial Incapacity for Work) benefit and the IVA (Full Permanent Incapacity for Work) benefit. The type of benefit you receive depends on how much you are still able to work. We offer customized solutions and proven trajectories to ensure you receive the correct benefit for your specific situation.
WGA Benefit (Partial Incapacity for Work)
The WGA (Werkhervatting Gedeeltelijk Arbeidsgeschikten) benefit is for individuals who are partially incapacitated for work. This means the UWV determines that you are 35% to 80% unable to work, or that you are more than 80% unable to work but there is still a good chance of recovery. This benefit aims to encourage you to return to work, even if it’s for fewer hours or in a different role. Our Comprehensive WGA Trajectory is designed to ensure a secure and smooth completion of your reintegration, with full coordination of your work, income, and benefits. We discuss the possibility of continuing your employment after 104 weeks in an adjusted form, align your strategy towards the UWV accordingly, and ensure your absenteeism file is correct and complete.
IVA Benefit (Full Permanent Incapacity for Work)
The IVA (Inkomensvoorziening Volledig Arbeidsongeschikten) benefit is for individuals who are fully and permanently unable to work. This means the UWV determines you are 80% to 100% unable to work and there is little or no chance of recovery. Our Shortened IVA Trajectory ensures a smooth completion of the reintegration process and the obtaining of an (advanced) IVA benefit.
Since a WIA benefit can only be applied for once, expert guidance not only provides you with peace of mind but also significantly increases the chance of a favorable outcome with the UWV.
Applying for disability benefits: You don’t have to face this alone
At UwVerzuimregisseur, we specialize in supporting employees like you who are dealing with chronic (progressive) illnesses such as Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer’s, COPD, Huntington’s, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) and Rheumatism. We act as a trusted advisor in all matters related to work, income and benefits.
Since 2018, we have helped over 400 clients find clarity and peace of mind during their sick leave and disability processes. We know firsthand the struggles that can arise after a diagnosis, and we are here to ensure you are not alone in this important phase.
Would you like personal guidance tailored to your situation? Schedule a free introductory meeting to discuss how we can support you.
What will happen if you fall ill on a temporary contract?
Worried about what happens if you fall ill on a temporary contract? Don’t be. The Dutch system is designed to provide security, ensuring a seamless transition from the standard 104 weeks of employer sick pay to support from the UWV. Get the peace of mind you deserve.
→ Read all about sick pay and the sickness benefit (Ziektewet) in our article: “Sick pay in the Netherlands“.
How we support you with disability benefits
Our services are tailored to help you navigate disability benefits, sick pay, and the WIA application process in the Netherlands.
- Expert guidance: We provide comprehensive support throughout your WIA (Work and Income According to Work Capacity Act) process. This process protects the value of your work and simultaneously secures your future income and benefits.
- Personal advocacy: We accompany you to important appointments with the occupational health service and the UWV (Employee Insurance Agency). We thoroughly prepare you for these meetings and ensure your voice is heard.
- Financial clarity: We provide independent insight into your future net disposable income based on Dutch laws and regulations. This includes salary, statutory benefits, and pension entitlements. We take all relevant financial aspects into account and answer your specific questions related to the Dutch system. You will receive a comprehensive report as a clear and practical reference.
- Peer support: Our peers, who have personal experience with chronic conditions, offer understanding and inspire you to cope with the lasting consequences of illness and strengthen control over your own life, work, and health. They provide support in finding a new daily routine with meaningful activities that fit your evolving situation.
- Process monitoring: We monitor the progress of your WIA application and act in your interest when necessary. With our expertise, we aim to prevent stressful and costly objection procedures. In the rare event of an unexpected UWV decision, our guarantee provides high-quality legal support. This is handled by our own legal department throughout the entire objection procedure.
The costs of our personal guidance with disability benefits
Our trajectories are modular and are generally paid for by the employer. For private individuals, separate modules can be purchased with a flexible payment plan. We are happy to discuss the possibilities with you.
UwVerzuimregisseur: Your trusted partner in Dutch social security
Our team acts as your advocate and guide, protecting your interests every step of the way. We understand that unfamiliarity with Dutch law and the intricacies of the WIA application can lead to stress and an increase in symptoms. That’s why having a professional by your side who truly understands the Dutch social security system and can represent your best interests is so important. We provide support with all aspects of disability benefits, including guidance through the WIA process and interactions with the UWV.
Take the first step towards peace of mind
We know that navigating this period can be incredibly stressful, but with expert guidance, you can gain peace of mind and significantly increase your chances of a smooth procedure with the UWV.
Let us help you understand your options and ensure your rights to disability benefits are fully protected.
