Wajong Eligibility in Tilburg: What Are the Requirements?
The Wajong eligibility criteria determine whether residents of Tilburg qualify for the Wet arbeidsongeschiktheidsvoorziening jonggehandicapten (Wajong Act for young disabled individuals). This scheme provides financial support to young people in Tilburg and the surrounding area who, due to illness or disability, cannot (fully) participate in the labor market. It applies if you become work-disabled before turning 18 or during your studies. In this article, we explain the requirements for Tilburg residents, including the legal framework, rights and obligations, and tailored advice. As a supplement to our overview of the Wajong benefit, this guide helps you determine eligibility and navigate the process in the region.
What Is the Wajong Benefit, and Why Do the Criteria Matter for Tilburg Residents?
The Wajong is a cornerstone of Dutch social security, offering support to young disabled individuals in Tilburg who face barriers in the labor market. The eligibility criteria ensure that benefits are granted only to those who genuinely qualify, based on individual circumstances. If you do not meet the Wajong requirements, your application will be denied. The Dutch Social Security Agency (UWV) assesses claims using medical and work-related evaluations. Note: the criteria depend on when your disability arose—before or after 2010 or 2015. Tilburg residents are advised to visit the Juridisch Loket Tilburg for free initial advice on their situation.
Legal Framework of Wajong Eligibility in Tilburg
The Wajong is governed by the Wajong Act, which aligns with 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 eligible individuals, such as those who become work-disabled before age 18 or during education.
- Article 3 of the Wajong Act: Requires a permanent work limitation of at least 35% disability.
- 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 recovery and part-time work alongside benefits. For up-to-date information in Tilburg, consult the UWV website or our article on social security. Locally, the Municipality of Tilburg offers support through reintegration programs.
Key Wajong Eligibility Criteria for Tilburg Residents
To qualify for Wajong benefits in Tilburg, you must meet strict conditions. These Wajong eligibility criteria ensure fair distribution. Here’s the core:
- Age and Timing of Disability: The disability must occur before age 18, during full-time studies (up to age 30), or during preparatory training. New claims are not accepted after age 30.
- Work Limitations: Due to illness, physical, or mental health issues, you cannot (fully) work. The UWV assesses this in percentages: for Wajong 2010 and later, at least 35% disability with no prospect of recovery.
- Residency and Legal Stay: You must reside in the Netherlands with valid residency status. EU citizens in Tilburg may have more flexible rules.
- No Double Benefits: You cannot receive full WAO, WIA, or Sickness Benefit Act payments simultaneously. Combinations are prohibited.
- Application Deadline: Submit your claim within two months after completing studies or a recovery period. Late submissions may result in deductions.
Under Wajong 2015, the eligibility criteria have been tightened: benefits are granted only in cases of total and permanent disability (zero work capacity). For partial limitations, wage supplementation is possible while working, which can be arranged through local employers in Tilburg.
Differences Between Wajong Variations in the Tilburg Context
The Wajong eligibility criteria vary by scheme. Below is a comparative overview:
| Scheme | Eligibility Criteria | Benefit for | Work Allowed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Wajong (pre-2010) | Disabled before age 18 or during studies | Partial or full disability | Yes, with income adjustments |
| Wajong 2010 | Same, plus no recovery prospects | Minimum 35% disability | Yes, benefit reduces with earnings |
| Wajong 2015 | Strict: total and permanent disability | No work capacity | Wage supplementation allowed |
The table highlights the tightening of rules, with greater emphasis on labor market reintegration. The Juridisch Loket Tilburg assists residents in navigating these variations.
Rights and Obligations Under Wajong Eligibility in Tilburg
If you meet the Wajong eligibility criteria, you will receive approximately 70% of the minimum wage (around €1,100 gross monthly in 2023, varying by case). Working is permitted, with possible supplements, but earnings are taken into account. Your rights include:
- Access to UWV reintegration services, such as training or workplace adaptations, potentially through Tilburg partners.
- Protection against dismissal due to disability.
- Option to file an objection or appeal if denied, via the Rechtbank Zeeland-West-Brabant in Breda.
Your obligations include:
- Cooperating with reintegration efforts, or risking benefit reductions.
- Reporting changes in health or income to the UWV within 10 days.
- Actively seeking work if partially capable, with support from the Municipality of Tilburg.
In Tilburg, inactivity is not an option; the UWV may conduct checks to ensure compliance. Contact the Juridisch Loket Tilburg 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.