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. 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 15 years to AOW age) |
| Period abroad | 2% less per year that you did not live in the Netherlands |
AOW amounts for 2024
Indication of net AOW amounts
| Living situation | Gross monthly amount |
|---|---|
| Single | ±€1.550 |
| Cohabiting (per person) | ±€1.050 |
| With younger partner (only you on AOW) | ±€1.550 + possible supplement |
Applying for AOW in Utrecht
In most cases, you do not need to apply for your AOW yourself:
- The Social Insurance Bank (SVB) will contact you about 6 months before your AOW age.
- You only need to check your details and possibly supplement them.
- If you move abroad, you must submit an application yourself.
What is an AOW gap?
If you have lived outside the Netherlands for periods, you may have an AOW gap:
- Per year that you were not insured: 2% less AOW.
- Voluntary insurance may be an option.
- Buying back missed years is possible up to 10 years back.
Continuing to work after AOW age
You may continue working after reaching your AOW age:
- Your AOW benefit will not be reduced.
- You pay less tax because you no longer owe AOW contributions.
- Other rules may apply in the field of 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 will be paid out, even abroad. The exact amount depends on your country of residence.
Does my partner's income affect my AOW?
No, since 2015 the AOW is an individual benefit. However, you may receive a supplement if your partner is younger and has no income of their own.
Frequently asked questions about AOW in Utrecht
When will I receive my AOW?
Your AOW age is determined by your year of birth. The SVB will inform you about 6 months in advance. You can also check your exact date via the SVB website or the government portal. Ensure your details are up to date, especially if you have moved.
What if I have lived abroad for periods?
For each year that you did not live or work in the Netherlands between your 15th and AOW age, you receive 2% less AOW. This is called an AOW gap. Voluntary insurance or buying back years (up to 10 years back) may be a solution. Contact the SVB for advice.
Can I defer my AOW to continue working?
No, the AOW starts mandatory at your AOW age and deferral for a higher benefit is not possible. However, you can continue working without a reduction in your AOW, with tax benefits because you no longer pay contributions.
What do I receive if I cohabit?
When cohabiting, you receive approximately €1.050 gross per month per person (2024), less than singles (€1.550) due to shared costs. With a younger partner without income, you can apply for an extra supplement.
Do I need to arrange my AOW myself?
Normally not. The SVB handles this automatically if you live in the Netherlands and sends a message in advance. If you live abroad, you must take action yourself.
Legal support in Utrecht
For questions or problems regarding your AOW, you can go to:
- District Court Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55, Utrecht