A truck driver who travels daily via the A58 and the Tilburg port unexpectedly loses his job in 2026. For him and thousands of colleagues in the industrial heart of Brabant, the Unemployment Insurance Act (Werkloosheidswet) changes drastically. Less paperwork, faster benefits and more room to earn extra income temporarily are central.
Faster WW Benefit Payments Within Two Weeks
Through direct linkage with payroll reporting systems, the UWV pays the first benefit within fourteen days. This prevents acute financial concerns for employees from neighbourhoods such as Reeshof or Noord. The former waiting period of four to eight weeks is abolished.
Simplified Daily Wage
The daily wage will henceforth be calculated on the basis of the average of the last twelve months. Holiday allowance is included as standard. One-off bonuses are spread. The maximum daily wage rises to € 287.50. Seasonal workers in the textile and distribution sectors no longer need to request a separate calculation.
More Scope to Earn Additional Income
Up to forty per cent of the former wage may be earned additionally without full deduction. Only the amount above this is offset. This relaxation facilitates part-time re-entry in the logistics hubs around Vossenberg and Loven.
Adjusted Job Application Obligation
Employees over sixty with thirty years of employment history need to apply for jobs less frequently. The UWV draws up a personal plan with the employee, allowing room for coaching and retraining. This fits well with the transition from traditional textiles to modern distribution in Tilburg.
Unchanged Elements of the Act
The duration of benefits remains dependent on employment history: minimum three, maximum twenty-four months. The culpability test in the event of summary dismissal remains applicable. Anyone who becomes unemployed through their own fault receives no benefit.
Preparation for Employers in Tilburg
- Check HR systems for connection to the new UWV linkage
- Have settlement agreements reviewed by a specialist
- Inform employees about the new additional earnings rules
Important Information for Employees in the Region
Do you become unemployed after 1 July 2026? The new rules apply immediately. Ongoing benefits will be converted, usually to your advantage. Free initial advice is available from Juridisch Loket Tilburg or from Arslan Arbeidsrecht at Spoorlaan 350, 5038 CC Tilburg (013-5300300). For disputes, the Rechtbank Zeeland-West-Brabant in Breda remains competent.