How can an entrepreneur dismiss an employee with an on-call contract?

In the case of an on-call contract for an indefinite period (on-call agreement), you generally need to apply for a dismissal permit through the UWV if you initiate the termination of employment due to the closure of the business.

Since it is an indefinite contract, it is legally considered a regular (permanent) employment relationship – even if it is an on-call contract.

When is a UWV procedure mandatory?

You must apply for a dismissal permit from the following authority:

· UWV

If:

· You want to terminate the employment relationship
· The reason for termination is economic in nature (for example, closing the business)
· There is no mutual agreement

Closing a business is considered an economic reason → therefore a UWV procedure is required.

What is the UWV procedure?

A UWV dismissal permit is the official authorization an employer needs to dismiss an employee for economic reasons (for example restructuring) or long-term illness (after 2 years). It is a written procedure in which the UWV checks whether the dismissal is justified and whether all conditions have been met.

Exception: mutual agreement (a faster solution)

A UWV procedure is not required if:

· The employment relationship is terminated by mutual agreement (settlement agreement – VSO).

In the case of closing a business, this is often a more practical solution.

Important:

· The transition payment (severance payment) usually has to be paid
· The end date must be determined correctly in relation to unemployment benefits (WW)
· The employee has a 14-day withdrawal period

In practice, many small business owners choose mutual agreement because it is:

· faster
· involves less administration
· provides more control over the end date

Transition payment in the case of an on-call contract

Yes, a transition payment must also be paid for an on-call employee.

The calculation is based on:

· The average gross salary of the last 12 months
· Including holiday allowance
· Including fixed allowances

What should you pay special attention to with an on-call employee?

  1. Has the employee received a mandatory offer for fixed working hours after 12 months?
  2. How many hours does the employee work on average?
  3. Does the contract contain a notice period?

These factors influence the calculation.

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