AOW gap for expats and returnees in Rijswijk

Expats and returnees in Rijswijk often face an AOW gap due to years abroad without Dutch premium payments. The AOW accrues through years of residence, not just work. Upon return to Rijswijk, you can voluntarily insure for periods prior to emigration, provided it is within the deadlines. In Rijswijk, with its international community and proximity to The Hague, many expats register with the SVB. EU rules (Regulation 883/2004) count years of residence in other EU countries, but not outside without a bilateral treaty. For non-EU countries, pro rata offsetting applies. The SVB verifies via international treaties. Practical example: a Rijswijk expat from the US with 20 Dutch years of residence receives 40% AOW; voluntary insurance fills up to 100%. Costs are higher for older applicants due to premium build-up. Local tip: visit Rijswijk town hall or the SVB office in The Hague for personal advice on return migration. Important: report emigration and return migration timely to SVB to preserve rights. Tax benefit via box 1 deduction. Advice: check your AOW accrual via mijn.svb.nl and fill gaps before AOW age. Alternative: Anw insurance for survivors' pension. This way you avoid financial surprises upon retirement in Rijswijk. (218 words)