A wage penalty can have significant financial and legal consequences for employers. It means that you must continue to pay the wages of a sick employee for up to 52 weeks longer, in addition to the standard period of 104 weeks. The UWV imposes a wage penalty when it appears that you have not done enough to reintegrate the employee. With the right approach, you can limit this risk. Resolu supports you in this with expert advice and practical solutions.
What is a wage penalty?
After 104 weeks of illness, the UWV assesses whether you have made sufficient reintegration efforts. If the UWV judges that you have failed, for example by not drawing up a plan of approach on time or by delaying the second track, it can impose a wage penalty. This means that you must continue to pay the employee's wages for up to 52 weeks longer. The responsibility for proper reintegration lies with you as the employer, even if you have relied on the advice of the company doctor.
This will help you avoid a wage penalty:
1. Start reintegration immediately
Immediately after reporting sick, start drafting a plan of action. Do not wait, but proactively take the lead in reintegration process.
2. Actively involve the employee
Keep open communication and make sure the employee is involved in the reintegration plan and its implementation. This promotes cooperation and recovery.
3. Collaborate with experts
Engage a company doctor or occupational health and safety service for medical advice in a timely manner and follow it.
4. Document carefully
Record all agreements, conversations and actions in the reintegration file. A complete and clear overview is essential for any audits.
5. Adjust work as needed
Organize appropriate adjustments in work or working hours so that the employee can gradually recover and function.
6. Evaluate progress regularly
Schedule set times to discuss reintegration progress and adjust the plan as needed.
7. When in doubt, call in experts early
When in doubt or complex situations, it is advisable to call in reintegration specialists. They can help you get the process right and minimize risks.
Resolu supports you in reintegration
At Resolu, we understand the complexity of reintegration processes and the risks of wage sanctions. Our case managers and specialists offer you expert guidance to ensure that the process runs smoothly and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. We help you create a thorough reintegration plan, maintain communication with all parties involved and document all steps correctly.
Want to learn more about how Resolu can support you in preventing a wage penalty? Feel free to contact us. Our staff are ready to assist you with advice and practical solutions.
