Combining WW Benefit with Part-Time Work in Westland: Rules and Pitfalls

# Combining WW Benefit with Part-Time Work in Westland: Rules and Pitfalls In Westland, the Netherlands' premier greenhouse and horticulture region, many unemployed individuals find part-time work in glasshouse horticulture or at local nurseries. Think of seasonal work at flower exporters or growers in 's-Gravenzande and Naaldwijk. This can be financially advantageous, but it affects your WW benefit via the UWV. The benefit is adjusted based on your new income from, for example, a greenhouse job, so that you do not receive double benefits. ## Key Rules in Westland You may work part-time as long as you comply with the job search obligation, even if you pursue vacancies at Westland agricultural companies. Report every new job immediately to the UWV office in The Hague or via werk.nl. The benefit is reduced by 70% of your new wages (after deduction of the deductible). Work weeks in horticulture count towards the duration of your WW entitlement and can increase your chances of permanent employment in the region. ### Calculation in Practice Suppose: your daily wage is €150, WW benefit €100 per day. With part-time wages of €70 per day from a greenhouse in Monster, your benefit becomes €30 per day (100 - 70% of 70). Note the partner test: if your partner works at a Westland company, this may affect your benefit. Use the UWV calculation tool for horticulture wages. ## Avoiding Pitfalls in Westland Avoid undeclared work in informal horticulture circles; this leads to recovery and fines up to €5,000, with additional risk due to local checks by the NVWA. Update changes within one week with the UWV. Participate in reintegration programs via WerkSaam Westland to prevent sanctions. This way, you maximize income from legal part-time jobs without risks. Always consult the UWV for personal advice, possibly via an appointment in the region. (312 words)