Absenteeism – so much more expensive than you think (and what you can do about it)

20/4/2026
Team Zakelijk
Calculating

Every employer deals with absenteeism. Whether it's a bout of flu or a long-term absence, it's part of doing business.

But many entrepreneurs underestimate the real costs.

Depending on the sector and role, an absent employee can easily cost between €250 and €400 per day — and that’s not even counting the indirect consequences.

Yet, absenteeism is often viewed merely as an administrative obligation.
It is only when someone is out for a longer period that the true impact becomes clear.

And that is exactly where things often go wrong.

What does an absent employee really cost?

An absent employee means much more than just continuing to pay their salary for up to 104 weeks.

Consider:

  • increased pressure on colleagues
  • loss of productivity
  • costs for replacement staff
  • time and administration related to occupational health services and the UWV

In the Netherlands, the average rate of absenteeism in 2024 was around 5.4%.
More than half of all employees called in sick at least once, with an average of 17 working days of absence per person.

Long-term absenteeism, often due to mental health issues, can even run into hundreds of days.

And it is precisely with long-term absenteeism that costs escalate the fastest.

Curious about what this means for your business?

In one conversation, you will gain insight into:

  • what absenteeism can really cost your business
  • where your risks lie
  • and how you can manage this better

Schedule an absenteeism check

The 3 biggest pitfalls in absenteeism

1. Acting too late
Many employers only seek help once the absenteeism has already been going on for a while.
Yet the first few weeks are crucial.

2. No grip on the process
An incomplete absence file or an unclear approach causes delays — and the risk of fines.

3. Insurance and support not properly arranged
If your insurance and occupational health service aren't well-aligned, you lose time.
And when it comes to absenteeism, time is money.

What can you do?

The key lies in speed and oversight.

Choose an approach where insurance and support are seamlessly integrated.
With a single point of contact and quick access to help, you prevent absenteeism from lasting longer than necessary.

Does this sound familiar?

Many entrepreneurs think their absenteeism management is well-organized — until something goes wrong.

In one conversation, you will gain insight into:

  • what absenteeism can really cost your business
  • where your risks lie
  • and how you can manage this better

Schedule your free absenteeism scan here.

contact

enter your

Ander Nieuws van Van Loon

People talking about insurance
Why every company should have their insurance checked annually
Advice on absenteeism insurance by an advisor
Take out absenteeism insurance: get a grip on absenteeism and reduce costs
Webinar The financial impact of absenteeism
Webinar The financial impact of absenteeism — and what you can do about it