The details of the third support and recovery package, which came into effect on 1 October, have been announced. What is new is that applicants for the NOW scheme have an obligation to make an effort to guide employees to other work. They must also first report to the UWV if they want to dismiss employees.
The third NOW scheme offers employers certainty for a longer period of time about the expected compensation for wage costs. At the same time, this third scheme provides employers with more scope to adapt their business operations to the 'new reality' and to restructure if necessary.
The NOW 3 lasts nine months and is divided into three blocks of three months that entrepreneurs can also apply for separately. During this period, the compensation percentage per period will be gradually adjusted downwards.
On the other hand, the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment will deduct five percent from the total subsidy amount for employers who apply for the scheme if they do not help the dismissed employee find other work. This is the first time that the ministry has linked an obligation to make an effort to the government schemes that have been taken in the context of the coronavirus. This 'fine' will lapse if the employer has to dismiss people for business economic reasons that are known to the UWV.
With these changes, entrepreneurs can both receive support and make difficult interventions to ensure the continued existence of the company. Want to know more about the NOW scheme? See the website from the UWV.
On the website You will also find all questions from the UWV, such as whether an account statement or a third-party statement is required for the application and final calculation of the NOW.
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