WWB and Participatiewet: transitional law and changes

The Participatiewet replaced the Wet werk en bijstand (WWB) as of 1 January 2015, with transitional law for existing benefits. WWB beneficiaries retained their rights until reassessment, but had to comply with new participation requirements. For young people (18-27), the 'guarantee act' applies: maximum 2 years of benefit without work, followed by trajectories. Asset limits were tightened and the one-off asset designation was abolished. Municipalities gained more freedom in activation measures. Changes since then: in 2020, increase in standards due to inflation; 2023 extension of the starters scheme. For Wajongers integrated via participatiewet benefit with wage supplement. Transition from WW to Participatiewet requires notification to UWV. Older schemes such as IoW (Iederong-werkhervatting) have been incorporated into broader trajectories. Check your status via Werk.nl. This transition reduced the number of benefit recipients by 20% due to stricter testing. For advice on transition: consult the SVB or municipality. Historical context helps in understanding ongoing matters. (197 words)