Wajong Eligibility in The Hague: What Are the Requirements?
The Wajong eligibility criteria determine whether residents of The Hague qualify for the Wet arbeidsongeschiktheidsvoorziening jonggehandicapten (Wajong benefit). This financial support assists young Hague residents who, due to illness or disability, are unable to work fully. It applies to those who became work-disabled before age 18 or during studies. In this article, tailored to the Hague context, we outline the eligibility rules—including legal framework, rights, and obligations—alongside local support tips. As a supplement to our overview of the Wajong benefit, this guide helps you navigate the regulations and understand when you may claim assistance through entities like the Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
What Is the Wajong Benefit, and Why Do Eligibility Rules Matter in The Hague?
The Wajong is a cornerstone of Dutch social security, providing benefits to young disabled individuals in cities like The Hague, where many students attend universities such as Leiden University or The Hague University of Applied Sciences. The eligibility criteria ensure fair distribution based on individual circumstances. If you do not meet the Wajong requirements, no benefit will be granted. The UWV evaluates applications using medical and vocational expertise. Note: the criteria differ depending on whether the disability arose before or after 2010/2015. In The Hague, you can seek free advice on your situation at the Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
Legal Framework of Wajong Eligibility
The Wajong is governed by the Wajong Act, linked to the Wet op de arbeidsongeschiktheidsverzekering (WaO) and the Wet werk en inkomen naar arbeidsvermogen (WIA). Key legal provisions include:
- Article 1 of the Wajong Act: Defines insured persons as those who become work-disabled before age 18 or during an education.
- Article 3 of the Wajong Act: Requires a permanent work disability of at least 35%.
- Article 16 of the Wajong Act: Determines benefit levels based on your work capacity.
The law has undergone changes: the classic Wajong (until 2009), Wajong 2010 (from 2010), and Wajong 2015 (from 2015). These adjustments affect the Wajong eligibility criteria, with a focus on reintegration and supplementary earnings. For up-to-date information in the Hague context, consult the UWV website or visit the Juridisch Loket Den Haag. See also our article on social security.
Key Wajong Requirements for Hague Residents
In The Hague, with its diverse population and student community, strict criteria apply for Wajong eligibility. These Wajong requirements ensure lawful benefit allocation. Key points:
- Age and timing of disability: Work disability before age 18, during full-time studies (up to age 30), or a preparatory course. New applications after age 30 are not eligible.
- Work disability: Limitations due to physical, mental, or psychological causes. The UWV assesses this in percentages: for Wajong 2010 and later, at least 35% with no prospect of recovery.
- Residency and legal stay: Must reside in the Netherlands with valid residency rights. EU residents in The Hague often benefit from more flexible rules.
- No double benefits: Excludes full WAO, WIA, or Sickness Benefit Act payments. Combinations are prohibited.
- Application deadline: Submit within two months after study completion or the end of the illness period. Late submissions risk loss of retroactive benefits.
Under Wajong 2015, the Wajong requirements have been tightened: only full, permanent disability (zero work capacity) qualifies for a base benefit. Partial capacity entitles you to wage supplementation if employed, offering opportunities in The Hague’s job market.
Differences Between Wajong Variations
The Wajong eligibility criteria vary by scheme. Overview in table:
| Scheme | Requirements | Benefit for | Work Allowed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Wajong (pre-2010) | Disabled before age 18 or during studies | Partial or full disability | Yes, with income adjustment |
| Wajong 2010 | Same, plus no recovery expected | Minimum 35% disability | Yes, benefit adjusts accordingly |
| Wajong 2015 | Full and permanent disability | No work capacity | Wage supplementation for part-time work |
The table illustrates the shift toward stricter rules, with greater emphasis on reintegration in a city like The Hague.
Rights and Obligations Under Wajong Eligibility in The Hague
If you meet the Wajong requirements, you receive approximately 70% of the minimum wage (around €1,100 gross monthly in 2023, varying by case). Work is permitted, with possible supplements, but income is taken into account. Additional rights include:
- Reintegration support from the UWV, such as training or workplace adaptations, often arranged locally in The Hague.
- Protection against dismissal due to disability.
- Right to appeal to the Rechtbank Den Haag (District Court of The Hague) if your application is rejected.
Obligations include:
- Active participation in reintegration efforts, or risk benefit reductions.
- Reporting changes in health or income to the UWV within 10 days.
- Job searching if partially employable.
In The Hague, this means taking proactive steps; the UWV may conduct checks. For assistance, contact the Municipality of The Hague or the Juridisch Loket Den Haag for personalized guidance.
Veelgestelde vragen
Wat is mijn retourrecht?
Bij online aankopen heb je 14 dagen retourrecht zonder opgaaf van reden, tenzij de wettelijke uitzonderingen gelden.
Hoe lang geldt de wettelijke garantie?
Goederen moeten minimaal 2 jaar meewerken. Defecten die binnen 6 maanden ontstaan worden verondersteld al aanwezig te zijn.
Kan ik rente eisen over schulden?
Ja, je kunt wettelijke rente eisen (momenteel ongeveer 8% per jaar) over het openstaande bedrag.
Wat kan ik doen tegen oneerlijke handelspraktijken?
Je kunt klacht indienen bij de consumentenbond, de overheid of naar de rechter gaan.
Wat is een kredietovereenkomst?
Een kredietovereenkomst regelt hoe je geld leent, wat de rente is, en hoe je dit terugbetaalt.