Pension Accrual for Self-Employed Professionals in Westland under the Future Pensions Act

From 2023, the Future Pensions Act (Wtp) reforms the pension system, with direct impact on self-employed professionals in Westland, such as horticultural entrepreneurs and greenhouse operators without voluntary AOW insurance. In Westland, the Netherlands' premier horticulture region, self-employed professionals do not accrue mandatory pensions, but the Wtp offers voluntary participation in sector pension funds such as those for the horticulture sector, complete with a premium table. The AOW remains the foundation for Westland entrepreneurs, but the Wtp accelerates the transition to defined contribution schemes. Benefits: higher coverage ratio and improved indexation, ideal for seasonal fluctuations in greenhouses. Westland self-employed professionals can join the Old Age Provision (FOR) for tax-efficient accrual, up to a maximum of 9.44% of profit in box 3. Difference from AOW: more flexible payouts and personal investment choices, fitting the dynamics of Westland. Costs: voluntary premium approximately 10-15% of income. Wtp article 90 specifically regulates self-employed participation. Practice in Westland: register with the Horticulture Pension Fund for a uniform agreement via the municipality or sector organisation. Returns often higher than AOW due to market investments. Risk: no payout guarantee. Strategy: fill the AOW gap and accrue via FOR and Wtp funds. The Tax Authorities apply annual room; example: with €50,000 profit in Westland horticulture, reserve €4,500 for pension. Become future-proof with the Wtp transition by 2028, tailored to local entrepreneurs' needs. (248 words)