What does the WAZO entail?
The WAZO (Work and Care Act) provides pregnant employees in Rijswijk with the right to maternity and childbirth leave with a corresponding benefit. This leave lasts at least 16 weeks, during which income is fully continued.
Length of the Leave
| Period | Duration | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Maternity leave | 4-6 weeks | Before the due date |
| Childbirth leave | 10-12 weeks | After the birth |
| Total | At least 16 weeks | Flexible to plan |
Start of the Leave
Choice in Start Moment
You determine yourself when your leave begins:
- Between 6 and 4 weeks before the due date
- Unused weeks before the birth are added after the birth
How Much Benefit Do I Get?
- 100% of your daily wage
- Maximum daily wage in 2024: €274.44 per day
- Payment via employer or directly by UWV
How Do I Apply for This?
- Inform your employer about your pregnancy (at least 3 weeks before leave start)
- Employer submits the application to the UWV
- Attach a statement from your doctor or midwife
- UWV pays out to employer or directly to you
Special Circumstances
- Multiple birth: Extra 4 weeks leave (total 20 weeks)
- Illness during leave: Leave is not interrupted
- Premature birth: Leave is extended
- Hospital admission of baby: Possibility of extra leave
Am I self-employed?
Self-employed persons in Rijswijk can also apply for a WAZO benefit. You do this directly via the UWV.
Can I arrange my leave flexibly?
Yes, after the first 6 weeks of childbirth leave, you can spread the remaining weeks over a period of 30 weeks.
Do I accrue vacation days during leave?
Yes, during your maternity and childbirth leave, you continue to accrue vacation days as usual.
Frequently Asked Questions about WAZO in Rijswijk
How long does the total leave last?
The leave lasts at least 16 weeks: 4-6 weeks before the birth and 10-12 weeks after. In case of a multiple birth, you receive 20 weeks in total.
When must I notify my employer?
Do this no later than 3 weeks before the start of your leave, so that the application can be submitted to the UWV in time.
What is the amount of the benefit?
You receive 100% of your daily wage, with a maximum of €274.44 per day in 2024, paid out via your employer or the UWV.
What if my baby is born prematurely?
In case of premature birth, your leave is extended so that you always have at least 16 weeks of leave.
Can I spread out my childbirth leave?
Yes, after the first 6 weeks, you can spread the remaining weeks over a maximum period of 30 weeks.
Contact and Support in Rijswijk
For legal questions about the WAZO, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk. In case of disputes, this falls under the Rechtbank Den Haag.