Part-Time Pension in Westland

Part-Time Pension in Westland

Part-time pension allows Westland residents to reduce their working hours from a certain age—for example, in greenhouses or metalworking companies—while starting to draw a portion of their pension. This combines employment income with pension benefits, ideal for a smooth transition to retirement age. It's especially popular among Westland workers who want to scale back without stopping abruptly.

Why part-time pension for Westlanders?

Many Westland residents seek flexibility as they approach retirement. With part-time pension, you could halve your hours from 40 to 20 per week, receiving pay for hours worked and pension for the rest. This maintains financial stability and gives you more time for hobbies or family, without a sudden drop in income. It ties in with our guide on Earlier retirement.

Legal rules for part-time pension

The foundation is the Pensions Act (Pw), particularly Article 24 Pw for flexible options and Articles 80 et seq. Pw for implementation by funds or insurers. Pension providers offer it if it fits the collective agreement or regulations. For civil servants, it's via ABP. The Work and Security Act (WWZ) and employment contract laws apply to hour reductions. Note: since January 1, 2023, AOW age depends on life expectancy, affecting start dates (see AOW age). For disputes, contact the Westland District Court.

Conditions for part-time pension in Westland

The following requirements apply for part-time pension:

• Age: Usually from age 55/60 or 5 years before retirement age.
• Pension scheme: Available via employer or fund (not standard everywhere).
• Employment: Continues, but reduced (at least 1 day per week).
• Employer approval: Required, unless covered by collective agreement.
• Health: No medical exam; age discrimination prohibited (Equal Treatment Act).

Check exact rules in your collective agreement with your provider or Het Juridisch Loket Westland for free advice.

Applying for part-time pension

Step by step:

1. Gather information: Check your pension at mijnpensioenoverzicht.nl.
2. Consult employer: Discuss your hours wish at least 3 months in advance.
3. Submit application: To fund and employer using the regulations form.
4. Approval: Employer decides within 1 month; pension follows.
5. Update contract: New part-time contract.

Rights and obligations

Rights:

• Pension pro rata for non-worked hours.
• Continued accrual over worked hours.
• Protection against dismissal until retirement age.

Obligations:

• Comply with work agreements.
• Pension taxable as income.
• Possibly reduced partner accrual.

Stopping part-time pension? Return to full-time possible, but pension drawn cannot be reversed.

Westland case examples

Jan (58), greenhouse grower in 's-Gravenzande (collective agreement from 57), reduces to 20 hours. Pay: €2,000 net, pension: €1,500. Total €3,500 vs. €4,000 full-time. Plus: extra time on the Westland coast.

Maria (62) at Municipality of Westland (ABP). 50% part-time pension: AOW later, but continues building. Downside: lower accrual.

Comparison full-time vs. part-time pension

Frequently asked questions

Tips for Westlanders

• Calculate first: Use fund calculator for net effect.
• Seek advice: Via Het Juridisch Loket Westland or advisor for tax (see Pension advice).
• Involve partner: Review partner pension and budget.
• Document everything: In writing in contract.
• Consider alternatives: Such as early retirement via collective agreement in horticulture sector.