Survivors' pension provides financial support to your partner and children after your death. The rules and coverage vary per pension scheme.
What is survivors' pension?
Survivors' pension is a benefit intended for your next of kin if you pass away. It has two variants:
- Partner pension: a monthly benefit for your partner
- Orphan's pension: a financial contribution for your children
Different forms of survivors' pension
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Accrual system | A portion of the partner pension is accrued annually |
| Risk basis | Coverage only during your employment, without accrual |
| Lump-sum payment | A one-time amount instead of periodic payments |
What is the amount of partner pension?
The benefit depends on your specific pension scheme:
- Often 70% of your old-age pension
- In some cases 50% or another percentage
- Check your annual pension statement for the exact figures
Details on orphan's pension
Orphan's pension supports children up to a certain age limit:
- Normally until 18 or 21 years
- In case of continued study sometimes until 27 years
- Usually 14-20% of the old-age pension per child
Frequently asked questions about survivors' pension
Does my partner receive survivors' pension if we are not officially married?
In many cases yes, but you often need to register this explicitly with your pension fund. Check the specific rules of your scheme.
Does the pension stop if my partner remarries?
Usually not, but this depends on the conditions of your pension scheme. Consult these for certainty.
What if I have no entitlement to survivors' pension?
Your partner may be able to claim under the General Survivors Act (Anw), provided the criteria are met.
Practical questions and answers
How do I know if I have accrued survivors' pension?
This can be seen on your annual pension statement from your pension fund. MijnPensioenoverzicht.nl also provides insight by logging in with DigiD. If in doubt, contact your employer or pension administrator in Westland.
Do my children always receive a benefit after my death?
Not standard. Orphan's pension is only granted if you had an active scheme at the time of death. Age limits vary, often until 18 or 21 years, and with study until 27 years. Check your regulations for details.
What happens when changing jobs?
With a new employer, a new accrual of survivors' pension often starts. The old pension remains, but may decrease in value due to inflation. Value transfer is sometimes possible; ask your new pension fund for advice.
Can I arrange extra coverage myself?
Yes, through an annuity insurance or a term life insurance policy, you can make additional provisions. Inquire carefully about costs and conditions before deciding.
Is survivors' pension taxable?
Yes, it falls under box 1 and income tax is levied on it. This applies to both partner and orphan's pension. Ask your pension provider about the exact deductions.
What to do in the event of my partner's death?
Contact your partner's pension fund immediately. Provide documents such as the death certificate and complete any forms. Payment often follows within a few weeks.
Can I transfer my pension to others?
No, survivors' pension is strictly personal and cannot be transferred.
For legal questions or support in Westland, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Westland or the District Court of The Hague (district).