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Sociale Zekerheid

Pension and Death in Utrecht: What You Need to Know

What happens to your pension upon death in Utrecht? Discover the rights of survivors to partner's pension and orphan's pension and how to report a death to the relevant authorities.

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What happens to your pension upon death? Survivors in Utrecht may be entitled to benefits, depending on your personal situation and pension scheme.

Death Before Pension Date

If you die before retiring:

  • Your partner may be entitled to partner's pension.
  • Your children may qualify for orphan's pension.
  • The benefit depends on the nature of your pension scheme (accumulation or risk).

Death After Pension Date

If you die while already receiving pension:

  • Your old-age pension ceases.
  • Your partner can receive a partner's pension.
  • The amount is often approximately 70% of your original old-age pension.

Reporting Death in Utrecht

Upon a death, you must report it to:

  • The pension fund for any benefits.
  • The SVB for AOW and possibly Anw benefits.
  • The employer, if the deceased was still employed.

Anw and Pension Benefits

In addition to a survivors' pension, survivors in Utrecht may be entitled to an Anw benefit (General Survivors Act):

  • The Anw is a government scheme.
  • It is separate from employer pensions.
  • The benefit may be reduced depending on other income.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pension and Death

Will my partner receive my full pension after my death?

No, your partner generally receives a partner's pension, often around 70% of what your old-age pension was or would have been.

What if I have no partner?

In that case, the partner's pension usually reverts to the fund. Children may still be entitled to orphan's pension.

Can I choose who receives my pension?

Partially. You can register your partner with the pension fund, but it is usually not possible to freely designate someone else.

Legal Support in Utrecht

For questions or legal advice on pension and death, you can contact:

  • District Court Midden-Nederland, Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht.
  • Juridisch Loket Utrecht, Catharijnesingel 55, Utrecht.

Extra Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly do survivors receive a benefit after death?
This varies per fund, but it usually takes 4 to 8 weeks. Report the death immediately to the pension fund and the SVB, and provide documents such as the death certificate to avoid delays.

What happens to my pension if I have no survivors?
Without a partner or children, your pension often reverts to the fund. In some cases, you can designate another beneficiary; check your scheme for this.

Can I extend the partner's pension?
With certain schemes, you can pay extra premiums for a higher partner's pension. Contact your fund or an advisor for options in Utrecht.