Applying for the ZEZ benefit: step-by-step with deadlines
Written by Ilias Aarrass5 min read · Published on · Last reviewed on 
In short
You apply for the ZEZ benefit yourself at UWV, between four and two weeks before your leave starts, using DigiD and a pregnancy declaration.
- Leave starts six, five or four weeks before the due date; with a multiple pregnancy that window sits between ten and eight weeks before.
- Apply late and UWV can postpone the start date, costing you benefit days.
- You receive a decision letter with the amount and duration; if it is wrong you object within the period stated in the letter.
- Your filing duties continue during leave: even without turnover you file a VAT return, a nil return if necessary.
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
You can submit the application between four and two weeks before the date you want the benefit to start. Earlier than four weeks is not possible, and two weeks ahead is the final moment. 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 (earliest moment) |
| 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. With a multiple pregnancy that window sits earlier, between ten and eight weeks before. 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.
After submitting: what to expect from UWV
After applying you receive a decision letter stating the amount and duration of your benefit. The amount depends on your hours or your income; how that calculation works is in calculating the ZEZ benefit. Check the letter carefully: if the start date is wrong or the amount lower than expected, you can object within the period stated in the letter.
After the birth, report the date of birth to UWV. If your child arrives on a different date than expected, your leave period is adjusted accordingly.
The mistakes we see most often
The scheme itself is simple; it is the same practical slips that cost money or weeks.
- Waiting for an invitation. It never comes: UWV does not know you are pregnant until you report it.
- Not reporting an employed job. The benefits are offset; what you withhold is reclaimed later.
- Requesting the pregnancy declaration only in the final week, so the whole application founders on the deadline.
- Choosing the start date without looking at your diary: a big project ending mid-leave is better handed over or wrapped up before that choice.
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?
In principle no: the choice between six, five or four weeks before the due date is made in the application. If your leave has not started yet and you still want to shift it, contact UWV as soon as possible.
Sources
- Applying for the ZEZ benefitUWV · uwv.nl
Sources checked on
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.
