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WW Entitlement after Dismissal in The Hague: Conditions, Application and Support

Dismissed in The Hague? Read everything about WW entitlement, conditions, application and local assistance via Juridisch Loket and Municipality of The Hague.

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WW Entitlement after Dismissal in The Hague: Conditions, Application and Support

As a resident of The Hague, you may face financial uncertainties after dismissal. The Unemployment Act (WW) provides an important safety net for employees who lose their job. In this article, we discuss what WW entitlement after dismissal entails, which conditions apply, how to apply for a WW benefit and how its amount is calculated. In addition, we explain where you can go in The Hague for legal and practical assistance.

What is the Unemployment Act (WW) and how does it work?

The Unemployment Act is a social insurance scheme in the Netherlands that protects employees against the financial impact of unemployment. If you live in The Hague and lose your job without it being your fault, you can apply for a WW benefit via the UWV (Employee Insurance Agency) under certain conditions. This benefit provides temporary financial support while you actively seek new employment.

The purpose of the WW is not only to cushion income loss, but also to motivate you to get back to work quickly. This means that during your WW period, you must apply for jobs and possibly participate in reintegration programmes, often supported by local agencies in The Hague.

Conditions for a WW Benefit in The Hague

To be entitled to a WW benefit after dismissal, you must meet a number of criteria. We list the most important conditions for you, so that you are well prepared.

Unemployment not attributable to you

You qualify for WW if your unemployment is not your fault. This applies, for example, in the following situations:

  • Dismissal by your employer: For example, due to reorganisation or business economic problems.
  • End of a fixed-term contract: If your contract is not extended.
  • Dissolution via the court: For example, by a judgment of the District Court of The Hague (Prins Clauslaan 60).

You have no right to WW if you resign yourself without a valid reason, are dismissed due to blameworthy conduct (such as fraud) or receive a high dismissal compensation that exceeds your WW entitlement.

Employment History: Weekly Requirement and Reference Requirement

In addition to the reason for your unemployment, you must meet two requirements regarding your employment history:

  • Weekly Requirement: You must have worked at least 26 weeks in the 36 weeks prior to your unemployment.
  • Reference Requirement: You must have accrued at least 208 wage hours in the same period, which amounts to approximately 52 days of work for a full-time job.

Availability for Work

You must be immediately available for the labour market. This means that you actively apply for jobs, register applications and cooperate in reintegration trajectories. In The Hague, for example, you can receive support in finding work or training via the UWV or the Municipality of The Hague (Spui 70).

Registration as Jobseeker with the UWV

It is mandatory to register as a jobseeker with the UWV within one week after the end of your employment. This is the first step to apply for your WW benefit.

How to Apply for a WW Benefit from The Hague?

Applying for a WW benefit follows a number of clear steps. We explain how you can go through this process smoothly, with extra attention to local resources in The Hague.

Step 1: Register as Jobseeker

As soon as you know your job is ending, register as a jobseeker within one week via the UWV website or by telephone. This is essential to prevent delay in your benefit.

Step 2: Submit your WW Application

After registration, you can apply for a WW benefit online via your personal UWV account. You must provide details such as your BSN, details of your last employer, dismissal documents and your bank account number.

Step 3: Submit the Required Documents

The UWV requests documents such as your employment contract, dismissal letter and recent payslips. If you need help gathering these papers, you can go to the Juridisch Loket The Hague (Lutherse Burgwal 10) for free legal advice.

Step 4: Await the Decision

Within four weeks, you will receive a decision from the UWV on your application. During this process, the UWV may contact you for additional information. If you have questions, you can also make an appointment at a UWV office in the The Hague region.

How is your WW Benefit Calculated?

The amount and duration of your WW benefit depend on your personal situation. Below you can read how this is determined.

Amount of the WW Benefit

Your benefit is calculated on the basis of your average daily wage over the past 12 months. For the first two months, you receive 75% of this daily wage, thereafter 70%. There is a maximum daily wage of €284.36 (2025), which means that your maximum benefit in the first two months is approximately €5,900 gross per month, and thereafter €5,500.

Duration of the Benefit

How long you receive WW depends on your employment history:

  • Less than 4 years worked: 1 month WW
  • 4 to 8 years worked: 3 months WW
  • Worked longer: the duration is determined by the UWV on a case-by-case basis.

Local Support in The Hague for WW Questions

As a resident of The Hague, you have access to various agencies that can help you with questions about WW or dismissal. Here are some useful addresses:

  • Juridisch Loket The Hague (Lutherse Burgwal 10): For free legal advice on dismissal and WW rights.
  • District Court of The Hague (Prins Clauslaan 60): For matters regarding dismissal or dissolution of employment contracts.
  • Municipality of The Hague (Spui 70): For help with reintegration, training or supplementary assistance if your WW benefit is insufficient.

With this local support, you can better understand your rights and get back on track to a new job in the The Hague region more quickly.