Applying for the ZEZ benefit: step-by-step with deadlines
Written by Ilias AarrassBookkeeper and owner of Fiscly Finance5 min read · Last reviewed on 
Written by Ilias AarrassBookkeeper and owner of Fiscly Finance5 min read · Last reviewed on The ZEZ benefit does not arrive automatically. You have to apply for it at UWV, and there is a deadline. The good news: the application itself takes half an hour, provided you have the right documents ready. This is the order.
What you need
Three things, no more. Make sure you have them together before you start, so you can complete the application in one go.
- A pregnancy declaration from your midwife or doctor, stating your due date. Request it in good time, because you need it for the application.
- Your DigiD. The application is submitted digitally via uwv.nl.
- Details of your hours and your income from the previous year, in case UWV asks for them.
The deadlines
UWV advises applying four weeks before your leave starts. The final deadline is two weeks in advance. Stick to the first date rather than the last: UWV needs processing time and you do not want your first payment arriving weeks after your leave begins.
| Moment | What you do |
|---|---|
| Around week 24 | Request the pregnancy declaration and choose your start date |
| 4 weeks before leave | Submit the application to UWV (advised) |
| 2 weeks before leave | Final application deadline |
| 6 to 4 weeks before the due date | Your leave starts |
Choose your start date deliberately
In the application you state when your leave starts: six, five or four weeks before your due date. That choice determines how many weeks you keep after the birth, and you cannot change it afterwards.
If your work makes the final weeks heavy, choose six. If you would rather stay home as long as possible after the birth, choose four. Either way the total remains sixteen weeks.
And after that: your records during leave
Your filing obligations continue during your leave. Even without turnover you must file a VAT return, a nil return if necessary. Skipping it results in a penalty; see late VAT return.
So before you leave, diary the returns or have your bookkeeper handle them, and chase outstanding invoices. More on that in debtor management.
Frequently asked questions
How do I apply for the ZEZ benefit?
Digitally via uwv.nl, using your DigiD. You need a pregnancy declaration from your midwife or doctor stating your due date.
What is the final deadline for applying?
No later than two weeks before your leave starts. UWV advises four weeks in advance, so the first payment arrives on time.
What happens if I apply late?
UWV can postpone the start date. You then lose benefit days you cannot make up, because the sixteen weeks keep running.
Can I change my start date later?
No. The choice between six, five or four weeks before the due date is made in the application and is then fixed.
This article provides general information based on the rules known for 2026 and does not replace personal tax advice. For your specific situation, we're happy to take a look with you.
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Ilias
