What does the AOW entail?
The General Old Age Pensions Act (AOW) forms the basic pension provided by the Dutch government. Everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands automatically builds up AOW entitlements. This pension starts at your AOW age and provides a fixed income for the rest of your life.
How do you build up AOW?
| Category | Condition |
|---|---|
| Annual accrual | 2% of the total AOW amount |
| Maximum period | 50 years for 100% accrual |
| Who accrues it? | Residents and workers in the Netherlands (from age 15 to AOW age) |
| Period abroad | 2% reduction per year that you did not reside in the Netherlands |
AOW amounts for 2024
Indication of net AOW benefits
| Living situation | Gross monthly amount |
|---|---|
| Single | ±€1.550 |
| Cohabiting (per person) | ±€1.050 |
| With younger partner (only you on AOW) | ±€1.550 + possible supplement |
How do you apply for AOW?
In most cases, you do not need to submit an application for AOW:
- The Social Insurance Bank (SVB) will automatically inform you approximately 6 months before your AOW age.
- You only need to verify and complete your details.
- Do you live abroad? Then you must submit an application yourself.
What is an AOW gap?
If you have lived abroad for a period, you may have an AOW gap:
- For each year that you were not insured, you receive 2% less AOW.
- Sometimes you can voluntarily insure yourself to prevent this.
- It is possible to buy back missed years, up to a maximum of 10 years back.
Combining AOW with work
You can also continue working after your AOW age:
- Your AOW benefit will not be reduced.
- You pay less tax because you no longer owe AOW contributions.
- Different rules may apply in employment law.
Can I receive my AOW earlier?
No, the AOW starts exclusively at your established AOW age. Starting earlier with a lower benefit is not possible.
Do I get AOW if I live outside the Netherlands?
Yes, your accrued AOW is also paid out abroad. However, the exact amount may vary depending on your country of residence.
Does my partner's income affect my AOW?
No, since 2015 the AOW is fully individual. However, you may qualify for a supplement if your partner is younger and has no income of their own.
Frequently asked questions about AOW in Zoetermeer
When will I receive my AOW?
Your AOW age is determined by your year of birth. The SVB will send you a message approximately 6 months before this date. You can also look up your exact AOW age yourself via the SVB website or the government portal. Ensure your details are up to date, especially if moving abroad.
What if I lived outside the Netherlands for a period?
For each year that you did not live or work in the Netherlands between age 15 and your AOW age, your AOW is reduced by 2%. This is called an AOW gap. You can sometimes compensate for this through voluntary insurance or buying back years (maximum 10 years back). Contact the SVB for more information.
Can I defer my AOW to continue working?
No, the AOW starts automatically at your AOW age and cannot be deferred for a higher benefit. However, you can continue working without your AOW being reduced. You then no longer pay AOW contributions, which provides a tax advantage.
What is the AOW amount when cohabiting?
When cohabiting, you receive approximately €1.050 gross per month per person (2024). This is lower than for singles (€1.550) due to shared costs. If your partner has not yet reached AOW age and has no income, you may be able to apply for an additional supplement.
Do I need to apply for AOW myself in Zoetermeer?
Normally not. The SVB arranges this automatically for residents of the Netherlands, including Zoetermeer. You will receive a message in good time to check your details.
Contact and support in Zoetermeer
For questions about your AOW or legal support, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer. In addition, Zoetermeer falls under the district of the District Court of The Hague for any disputes or legal proceedings regarding your AOW.