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Sickness Benefits Act: Who Qualifies and What You Get

Learn how the Sickness Benefits Act provides income support for employees in the Netherlands who do not have employer-paid sick leave.

The Sickness Benefits Act is a national scheme designed to provide financial support to workers who are unable to work due to illness.

Who it's for

This scheme is for employees who do not have a separate sick pay arrangement provided by their employer.

What you get

If you qualify, you will receive a portion of your daily wage to help cover expenses while you are unable to work due to sickness. The amount is calculated as a percentage of your daily earnings.

What it costs you

To access these benefits, you must provide a medical certification to prove your inability to work.

The catch to know

This benefit only applies if your employment contract does not already include an employer-paid sick pay scheme. If your employer already covers your salary during illness, this specific act may not apply to you.

How to apply

  1. Obtain a medical certification regarding your illness.
  2. Submit your notification of illness (ziekmelding) to the relevant authorities.
  3. Follow the specific instructions provided by the issuing government body regarding your claim.