What is the Anw?
The General Survivors Act (Anw) provides a financial benefit to survivors of a deceased partner. This support compensates for income loss after death. Note: not everyone qualifies, the rules are strict.
Conditions for Anw in Zoetermeer
| Criterion | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Death of partner | Married, registered partnership or cohabiting |
| Insurance | Deceased was covered by Anw insurance |
| Age or responsibility | Disabled for work or care for child under 18 |
When are you entitled to Anw?
You can claim Anw if:
- You are raising a child under 18 years old, or
- You have been declared at least 45% disabled for work
If none of these situations apply to you, you will not receive a benefit.
Anw Amounts 2024
Maximum benefits
| Type of benefit | Gross per month |
|---|---|
| Survivor's benefit | ±€1,450 |
| Half-orphan benefit (per child) | ±€430 |
| Full orphan benefit | ±€430 - €650 |
Additional income may lead to a lower benefit.
How long do you receive Anw?
- Until your AOW age (in case of disability for work)
- Until your youngest child turns 18 (in case of care responsibility)
- Stops upon new cohabitation or marriage
Influence of own income on Anw
Your own income is partially offset:
- 50% of income above the exemption threshold is deducted
- Income from work, pensions or other benefits counts
- Assets have no influence
Will I get Anw if I was cohabiting unmarried?
Yes, provided you had a notarial cohabitation agreement or a joint child. Otherwise, this is often not possible.
What if I start cohabiting with a new partner?
Yes, the Anw benefit stops as soon as you start cohabiting with a new partner.
Am I entitled to Anw upon the death of an ex-partner?
No, unless you were receiving alimony from your ex-partner. In that case, you may be able to claim it.
Frequently asked questions about Anw in Zoetermeer
How do I apply for an Anw benefit?
In Zoetermeer, you can apply for an Anw benefit via the Social Insurance Bank (SVB). You do this online via Mijn SVB with your DigiD or by telephone. Submit documents such as the death certificate and possibly a cohabitation agreement. The SVB will assess your application. Apply as soon as possible, because the benefit only starts after approval and is not paid retroactively.
Can I receive Anw without children or disability for work?
No, without children under 18 or at least 45% disability for work, you do not qualify. The law makes no exceptions here. Consider alternatives such as social assistance via the municipality of Zoetermeer or a death benefit via a pension scheme.
What is the income threshold for reduction of my Anw?
In 2024, the exemption threshold is around €1,450 gross per month. Above this amount, 50% of the additional income is deducted from your benefit. For example: if you earn €1,900, €450 (50% of €900) is deducted from your Anw.
What happens to my Anw when my child turns 18?
If your youngest child turns 18 and you only received the benefit on the basis of care, the Anw stops. A transitional arrangement is sometimes possible. If you are also disabled for work, the benefit continues until your AOW age. Contact the SVB for advice.
Where can I get help in Zoetermeer?
For legal questions about Anw, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer. They offer free advice. For disputes, you can submit a case to the District Court of The Hague, under which Zoetermeer falls.