WW Reference Period in Den Haag: Definition and Calculation
The WW reference period is the timeframe the UWV uses to calculate your previous earnings for your daily wage in unemployment benefits (WW). This period begins just before the reference date, the first day you are entitled to WW as a Den Haag resident. The daily wage determines your benefit amount. It usually covers one calendar year (52 weeks), but can be longer for part-time work. As a Den Haag resident, the Juridisch Loket Den Haag can explain this to you free of charge to avoid surprises.
Legal Basis of the WW Reference Period
The WW reference period is governed by the Unemployment Act (WW), Articles 17 et seq., and the Daily Wage Decree for Employee Insurances. The UWV uses it to estimate your earning capacity in Den Haag and surrounding areas. The reference date is typically the day after your contract ends or your first day of unemployment.
- Standard duration: 52 weeks before the reference date.
- Exception: If earnings are insufficient, the period extends up to a maximum of 5 years (260 weeks).
- Qualifying earnings: Gross salary including holiday pay, 13th-month pay, and fixed allowances (see WW Daily Wage Calculation).
These rules ensure fairness, but local nuances in Den Haag—such as flex work in the port or government sector—make verification essential.
How Does the UWV Determine the Reference Period for Den Haag Residents?
- Establish reference date: First WW day, e.g., after dismissal by a Den Haag employer.
- Count backwards: 52 weeks from the reference date; only full weeks count.
- Verify earnings: UWV requests data from employers via the policy administration.
- Extend if necessary: Below 70% of maximum daily wage? The period is extended until sufficient earnings are covered.
Note: Sick leave or maternity leave does not count as earnings but may shift the period. For questions, contact Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
Practical Examples of WW Reference Period in Den Haag
Example: Dismissal on 1 June 2024. Reference date 2 June 2024, reference period 3 June 2023 to 2 June 2024.
- Example 1: Full-time at Den Haag institution
40 hours/week, €3,000 gross/month. Total earnings / 261 days = daily wage approx. €114. - Example 2: Part-time in Scheveningen retail
20 hours/week (€1,500/month). Too low: extend to 104 weeks for a higher normalized daily wage. - Example 3: Multiple jobs
January-July at A (€2,000/month), then B (€2,500). Add everything in the period.
Comparison: Standard vs. Extended Reference Period
| Situation | Duration | Daily Wage Example | WW Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time work | 52 weeks | €114 (€3,000/month) | 70-75% of daily wage |
| 50% part-time | 104+ weeks | €95 (normalized) | Higher due to averaging |
| Low earnings + leave | 260 weeks | €80 | Prevents low benefit |
Rights and Obligations Regarding WW Reference Period in Den Haag
Rights:
- Review your WW decision and check the period.
- Object within 4 weeks to UWV; escalate to District Court Den Haag.
- Correct with payslips if employer made errors.
Obligations:
- Provide proof of earnings.
- Cooperate with UWV requests.
- Report additional income.
Non-compliance? Repayment or suspension. Consult Municipality of Den Haag for benefits assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions on WW Reference Period in Den Haag
Can illness shift the reference period?
Yes, illness does not count as earnings; UWV adjusts based on working weeks. Proof helps with objections; see Illness and WW or Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
Freelance work in the reference period?
Regular freelance counts as fictitious earnings. Report honestly to avoid fines.
On-call workers in Den Haag?
Average earnings over 52+ weeks; from 2024, all hours are treated uniformly.
Can you choose your own period?
No, UWV decides. Objection only with valid grounds.
Tips for WW Reference Period as a Den Haag Resident
- Document everything: Keep payslips and contracts for 5 years.
- Check immediately: Provisional daily wage on application; correct via UWV.
- Seek help: Juridisch Loket Den Haag for free review.
- Local advice: Municipality of Den Haag for WW and benefits.