What is WAZO?
The abbreviation WAZO is an abbreviation for the Work and Care Act. In addition to this "leave" type, this law regulates more types of leave, such as parental leave and adoption leave.
Maternity and childbirth leave
Are you expecting a child? Then you are entitled to maternity leave with an associated benefit under the Labor and Care Act (WAZO). This is divided into an allowance until the delivery, in which you are entitled to maternity leave and an allowance. And in a part after childbirth, namely childbirth leave and benefit.
When to apply for maternity leave
If you have an employer, you can request it from the employer three weeks before the leave starts. This is at least seven weeks before the due date of delivery since maternity leave begins no later than four weeks before this date. The employer applies for both forms of benefits at once.
How long entitlement to maternity leave and benefits?
6 to 4 weeks before your due date, you are entitled to maternity leave. During this period, you will also receive maternity benefits. Are you expecting twins or multiples? Then the maternity leave starts 10 to 8 weeks before the due date.
How long entitlement to maternity leave and benefits?
After giving birth, that is, not the due date but the date on which the delivery took place, you are entitled to at least 10 weeks of maternity leave and receive childbirth benefits during that period. Of these 10 weeks, the first six consecutive weeks are mandatory. You may take the remaining weeks by agreement with your employer during the next 30 weeks.
How high is the benefit?
Maternity pay is 100% of the daily wage. The employer receives this amount from the UWV and deducts it from your wages. You will then receive your wages as you are used to.
Illness during pregnancy
You may have been called in sick prior to maternity leave. This may have two causes:
- Due to pregnancy
- Or due to some other cause.
In the case of illness due to pregnancy, there is a "safety net" situation. The UWV will then reimburse employer for medical expenses.
