Wajong Eligibility in Delft: What Are the Requirements for You?
The Wajong eligibility criteria determine whether residents of Delft qualify for the Wet arbeidsongeschiktheidsvoorziening jonggehandicapten (Wajong disability benefit). This financial support is designed for young Delft residents who, due to illness or disability, are (partially) unable to work. It applies if you became disabled before your 18th birthday or during studies, such as at TU Delft. This article explains the requirements for Delft residents, including legal foundations, rights and obligations, and localised tips. As a supplement to our overview of the Wajong disability benefit, it helps you assess eligibility and the steps to take in Delft. For personalised advice, contact the Delft Legal Advice Centre.
What Is the Wajong Benefit, and Why Do the Criteria Matter for Delft Residents?
The Wajong is a cornerstone of Dutch social security, providing benefits to young disabled individuals in cities like Delft who cannot fully participate in the labour market. The eligibility criteria ensure the scheme is reserved for those who genuinely qualify based on individual circumstances. If you do not meet the Wajong eligibility requirements, no benefit will be granted. The UWV (Dutch Social Security Agency) evaluates applications through medical and vocational assessments. Crucially, the criteria vary depending on when your disability arose—before or after 2010 or 2015. In Delft, with its high student and young professional population, this is particularly relevant for those who become disabled during education.
Legal Framework of Wajong Eligibility in Delft
The Wajong is governed by the Wajong Act, aligned 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 disabled before age 18 or during studies in Delft.
- Article 3 of the Wajong Act: Requires sustained work incapacity, with at least a 35% disability rate.
- Article 16 of the Wajong Act: Determines benefit levels based on your work capacity.
The law has undergone changes: the original Wajong (until 2009), Wajong 2010 (from 2010), and Wajong 2015 (from 2015). These adjustments have refined the Wajong eligibility criteria, with a focus on reintegration and supplementary earnings. For up-to-date information in Delft, check the UWV website or our article on social security. The Municipality of Delft offers additional support through social services.
Key Wajong Eligibility Requirements for Delft Residents
To qualify for Wajong benefits in Delft, you must meet strict criteria. These Wajong eligibility requirements ensure fair distribution. Here’s the core:
- Age and Timing of Disability: Were you disabled before age 18, during full-time studies (up to age 30), or a preparatory course in Delft? This does not apply to new applicants over 30.
- Work Incapacity: Due to illness, physical, or mental disabilities, you are (partially) unable to work. The UWV quantifies this: for Wajong 2010 and later, at least 35% incapacity with no prospect of recovery.
- Residency and Legal Stay: You must reside in the Netherlands, specifically in Delft, with valid residency status. EU citizens may have more flexible rules.
- No Double Benefits: You cannot receive full WAO, WIA, or Sickness Benefit Act payments. Combinations are prohibited.
- Application Deadline: Submit within two months after ending studies or the illness period. Late submissions may forfeit retroactive benefits; the Delft Legal Advice Centre can assist with deadlines.
Under Wajong 2015, the eligibility requirements have tightened: benefits are only granted for total and permanent incapacity (zero work capacity). For partial incapacity, wage top-ups may apply if you work in Delft.
Differences Between Wajong Variations in the Delft Context
The Wajong eligibility requirements vary by scheme. Below is a comparative table:
| Scheme | Requirements | Benefit for | Work Allowed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original Wajong (pre-2010) | Disabled before age 18 or during studies in Delft | Partial or full incapacity | Yes, with income offset |
| Wajong 2010 | Same, plus no recovery prospect | Minimum 35% incapacity | Yes, benefit reduces with income |
| Wajong 2015 | Strict: total and permanent incapacity | No work capacity | Wage top-ups for part-time work |
The table highlights the shift toward stricter rules, with greater emphasis on labour market reintegration in a city like Delft with abundant opportunities.
Rights and Obligations Under Wajong Eligibility in Delft
If you meet the Wajong eligibility requirements, you receive approximately 70% of the minimum wage (around €1,100 gross monthly in 2023, varying by case). Working is permitted, with possible supplements, but earned income affects your benefit. Your rights include:
- Reintegration support from the UWV, such as training or workplace adaptations in Delft-based companies.
- Protection against dismissal due to disability.
- Right to appeal a rejection, filed with the District Court of The Hague.
Your obligations are:
- Cooperate with reintegration efforts, or face benefit reductions.
- Report changes in health or income to the UWV within 10 days.
- Actively seek work if partially capable, with assistance from the Municipality of Delft.
In Delft, passivity is not an option; the UWV may conduct checks and collaborate with local authorities to improve integration.
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.