Are you considering stopping work earlier than the AOW age in Utrecht? This is possible, but you must arrange the financial side yourself. Discover what options you have.
Early Retirement
The standard pension age is linked to the AOW age. You can stop earlier, but take the following into account:
- The AOW benefit only starts at the established AOW age
- Stopping earlier means a lower pension benefit
- You must financially bridge the period until the AOW age yourself
Options for Early Retirement
| Option | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Claim early pension | Have your pension paid out earlier, but with a lower monthly benefit |
| Apply for part-time pension | Work fewer hours and receive partial pension |
| Access personal savings | Use your personal reserves to bridge the period |
| Utilise RVU scheme | A special scheme through your employer for early exit |
What does early pension entail?
Often you can start your employer's pension up to 5 years earlier. However, this has consequences:
- You receive less pension monthly
- Guideline: for each year you stop earlier, your pension decreases by approximately 6-8%
- This lower amount applies for the rest of your life
What is the RVU scheme?
The Early Exit Scheme (RVU) allows employers to let older employees in Utrecht and beyond stop earlier:
- Applies to employees within 3 years before the AOW age
- Employers can pay out up to a certain amount without additional taxes
- Maximum €2,182 gross per month in 2024
- This scheme is valid until and including 2026
Frequently Asked Questions about Early Retirement
How much savings do I need to retire early?
Determine your monthly expenses and multiply this by the number of months until your AOW age to get an indication.
Is it possible to receive AOW earlier?
No, the AOW age is fixed and cannot be paid out early.
What exactly does part-time pension mean?
With part-time pension, you work fewer hours and compensate the income loss with part of your pension benefit.
Legal Support in Utrecht
Do you have questions about your rights or schemes regarding early retirement? You can go to the Juridisch Loket Utrecht at Catharijnesingel 55 for free advice. For disputes, you can contact the District Court Midden-Nederland, located at Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1.
Practical Tips for Residents of Utrecht
If you live in Utrecht and are considering early retirement, also check local initiatives or workshops on pension planning. Organisations such as the municipality of Utrecht sometimes offer information evenings or financial courses. Make sure you are well informed about your options and the impact on your future income.