What is the WAO scheme?
The WAO is the Dutch incapacity benefits scheme. If you became incapacitated before 1 January 2004 and you receive a WAO benefit, you will continue to receive this benefit until your situation changes or you stop meeting the benefit conditions.
What is the WIA scheme?
On 1 January 2004 the WAO scheme changed to the WIA scheme. The WIA is the Dutch Work and Income According to Labour Capacity Act.
You are a cross-border worker and you become incapacitated for work
If you are a cross-border commuter between the Netherlands and Belgium or the Netherlands and Germany, find out more on the Grensinfopunt website.
When you reach your AOW pension age
Your WAO or WIA benefit will stop automatically when you reach your AOW pension age. We will send you a letter inviting you to apply for your AOW pension 4 months before you reach your AOW pension age.