What happens to your pension upon death? Survivors may be entitled to benefits, depending on your personal situation and the specific pension scheme.
Death Before the Pension Date
If you pass away before retiring:
- Your partner may be eligible for partner's pension.
- Your children may be entitled to orphan's pension.
- The exact coverage depends on your pension scheme (accumulation or risk basis).
Death After the Pension Date
If you pass away while already receiving pension:
- The old-age pension is terminated.
- Your partner may receive partner's pension.
- The amount is often approximately 70% of your old-age pension.
Reporting Death in Westland
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 Survivors' Pension
In addition to survivors' pension, survivors may also be entitled to a benefit under the General Survivors Act (Anw):
- Anw is a government benefit.
- It is separate from employer pensions.
- The amount of the Anw may be reduced by other income.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pension upon Death
Will my partner receive my full pension after my death?
No, your partner usually receives partner's pension, which is often 70% of the old-age pension you received or would have received.
What if I have no partner?
In that case, the partner's pension usually reverts to the fund. Children can, however, claim orphan's pension.
Can I choose who receives my pension?
Partially. You can register your partner with the pension fund, but designating another person is often not possible.
Additional Information and Assistance in Westland
For legal questions or support regarding pension and death, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Westland. They offer free advice and can help you understand your rights and obligations. Additionally, Westland falls under the jurisdiction of the District Court of The Hague for any legal disputes concerning pension matters.
Practical Questions about Pension Benefits
How long does it take for survivors to receive a benefit?
The processing time varies per fund, but is usually between 4 and 8 weeks. Report the death immediately and provide documents such as a death certificate to avoid delays.
What happens to my pension if I have no survivors?
If there is no partner or children, the pension often reverts to the fund. Some schemes offer options to designate another family member; consult your pension regulations.
Can I increase the partner's pension?
In some cases, you can pay extra premiums or take out supplementary insurance. Contact your pension fund for options in Westland.