UWV is going to check 43,000 disability benefits for errors. This is evident from an initial analysis of 220,000 WIA benefits over the period from January 2020 to December 2024. The analysis showed that there is no reason to suspect errors in the other WIA benefits. UWV aims to start correcting benefits this spring. Starting in March, the organization will begin informing benefit recipients. This is stated by Minister Van Hijum of Social Affairs and Employment in a letter to the House.

Start correcting

UWV wants to start small with checking WIA benefits. This is part of the learning approach, which closely examines unintended effects. For example, an adjusted benefit can have consequences for allowances, for the premium that the employer pays, or for the additional benefit that the pension fund pays out. As part of this learning approach, initial experiences are being gained by checking a limited group of 20 people who have self-reported to UWV. They can choose whether or not to participate.

Minister Van Hijum: I completely understand that many people are longing for clarity. UWV is now also making a start, and that is progress. But I also want it to be done right the first time, even if that takes a little extra time. And very importantly: this must happen together with the people who have been affected. Their interests must come first.

Recovery

The minister reiterates that there is a very cautious approach to recovery. Only if the benefit was higher than the previous wage will it be examined whether it was reasonably clear that the benefit was too high. Consideration is also given to the consequences that any recovery may have.

Reference wage

Checking the WIA benefits involves daily wages. Recently, errors concerning the calculation of the reference wage became known. UWV is currently investigating this, and the results are expected in April.