Over 113,000 individuals could lose their unemployment benefits next year, according to reports from De Morgen and Het Laatste Nieuws. This figure exceeds the earlier estimate of more than 100,000.
The Federal Government has decided to cap unemployment benefits at a maximum of two years, with the new rule set to take effect at the beginning of 2026. Employment Minister David Clarinval (MR) mentioned that this reform would impact over 100,000 long-term unemployed individuals under the age of 55. However, new figures from the National Employment Office suggest that approximately 113,000 people will lose their benefits next year.
In addition, 2,000 people receiving a so-called "safeguard" allowance will also be affected. This status applies to individuals with long-term medical issues who aren't declared completely unfit to work, and it will disappear after two years.
The updated estimates indicate that more than 33,000 people over 55 could also potentially lose their unemployment benefits after two years. However, the government has made an exception for those over 55 who have more than 30 years of work experience; they will retain their benefits.
