How do I apply for unemployment benefit at UWV?
Applying for WW benefit at UWV follows fixed steps: (1) Register as job seeker at werk.nl within 1 week of last working day (required for entitlement). (2) Apply for WW at Mijn UWV with DigiD — from 1 week before until 1 week after first unemployment day. (3) Requirements: 26 weeks worked in past 36 weeks (reference requirement). Not unemployed by own fault (summary dismissal yes, self-resignation no). (4) Amount: first 2 months 75% of WW monthly wage, then 70%. Max daily wage €292.28 (2026) = max ~€5,000/mo. (5) Duration: 3 months min (26 weeks work), max 24 months (>40 years work history). Per worked year = 1 month WW. (6) Job-search duty: min 4 applications per 4 weeks, log on Werkmap. No application = WW reduction. (7) Decision: within 4 weeks after last working day.
Step by step
- 1Register at werk.nlWithin 1 week of last working day, mandatory. Activates job-seeker status. DigiD needed.
- 2Apply WW on Mijn UWVuwv.nl > Mijn UWV > WW aanvragen. DigiD login. Form ~30 min, online decision.
- 3Add documentsLast 3 months payslips, dismissal letter or settlement agreement, bank account for WW payment.
- 4Wait for decision (max 4 wks)UWV checks reference requirement + own fault. On doubt: extra info requested. On approval: first payment within 6 weeks.
- 5Maintain job-search dutyMin 4 applications per 4 weeks logged on Werkmap. No application? WW reduction. Medical limitation: adjusted plan via occupational expert.
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Frequently asked questions
Do I get WW if I quit myself?
Standard no — UWV sees this as “own fault”. Exception: demonstrable untenable situation (harassment, illness, partner relocation for work). Settlement agreement: often DO get WW (UWV-safe).
How much WW do I receive?
First 2 months: 75% of average daily wage last 12 months. Then 70%. Max daily wage €292.28 (2026) = ~€5,000/mo regardless of income. Freelance/part-time: adjusted.
What if I don't reach 4 applications?
First time: warning. On repeat: 5% reduction for 4 weeks. On refusing suitable job: WW fully stopped. Good admin = safe: use job sites + keep proof.
Sources
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