Linking AOW Age to Life Expectancy in Westland
For residents of Westland, the linking of AOW age to life expectancy ensures that the pension age automatically adjusts with average life expectancy. This keeps the AOW system affordable, particularly for greenhouse builders and growers in our region who often work well into later years. The policy eases pressure on public finances by gradually raising the AOW age.
What does this linkage mean for you?
In Westland, the AOW age tracks life expectancy statistics, calculated by the Social Insurance Bank (SVB) and Statistics Netherlands (CBS). If life expectancy increases, so does your pension age, balancing benefits with working years. Since 2024, a 'limited linkage' applies: for every six months of additional life expectancy at age 65, the AOW age rises by three months.
Legal basis
The foundation is the General Old Age Pensions Act (AOW), Article 7. Key legislative changes include:
- Amendment Act Raising AOW Age 2012 (Bulletin of Acts and Decrees 2012, 500), introducing linkage in 2013.
- Pension Agreement 2019 through the Future Pensions Act (2023), with limited linkage from 2028.
- Article 7, paragraph 2 AOW: Age based on life expectancy of your birth cohort.
Calculations follow SVB policy rules and CBS projections. For personal advice in Westland: contact Westland Legal Advice Desk.
Historical development of AOW age
The age has risen since 2013. Overview for Westland planners:
| Year | AOW age | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 66 years and 8 months | Full linkage |
| 2023 | 66 years and 4 months | Ongoing adjustment |
| 2024-2027 | 67 years and 3 months | Fixed period |
| 2028+ | 67 years + variable | 50% linkage |
Example: Born in 1958? AOW starts in 2025 at 67 years and 3 months. Later generations in Municipality of Westland begin later if life expectancy rises.
Future outlook
From 2028, the increase halves. CBS projections (May 2023): life expectancy at age 65 rises from 20.4 to 21.5 years by 2040. Possibly 67 years and 6 months in 2030, 68 years around 2040. The government reviews this biennially; decreases are rare.
Rights and obligations
Rights:
- AOW automatically from your age.
- Check via Mijnpensioenoverzicht.nl.
- Pro-rata AOW upon emigration.
Obligations:
- Update your address with SVB and Municipality of Westland.
- Continue paying premiums via employment or voluntarily.
- Plan ahead; many Westlanders continue in greenhouse horticulture.
Westland case examples
Example 1: Ms. Van der Meer, grower from 's-Gravenzande (born 1960), starts AOW in 2027 at 67 years and 3 months. Linkage assumes benefits until around age 88.
Example 2: Mr. Bakker from Naaldwijk (born 1970), expects AOW in 2037 at 67 years and 8 months. He is building bridge pension now through his nursery.
This is how the linkage affects your planning. More info: AOW Age Westland.
Frequently asked questions
Can AOW age decrease?
Yes, if life expectancy falls, but trends are upward. SVB applies CBS data.
How to calculate my AOW age?
Use SVB calculator or Mijnpensioenoverzicht.nl with your birth date.
Does it apply to current retirees?
No, your age is fixed by birth cohort.
Can I stop earlier?
Bridge pension via employer; AOW later. Consult Westland Legal Advice Desk.
Tips for Westlanders
Prepare by checking your pension, notifying Municipality of Westland of address changes, and seeking advice from Westland Legal Advice Desk or Westland District Court for disputes. Continue working as a grower for extra income.