Linking AOW Age to Life Expectancy in Rijswijk
For residents of Rijswijk, the linking of AOW age to life expectancy ensures that the AOW pension age automatically adjusts to average life expectancy. This keeps the pension system affordable, including for future generations in our municipality. The measure reduces financial pressure on the government by gradually increasing the AOW age, which is relevant for many Rijswijk residents who live and work here.
What does this linking mean for you?
The linking of AOW age to life expectancy ties the start date of your AOW pension to life expectancy statistics. Agencies such as the Social Insurance Bank (SVB) and Statistics Netherlands (CBS) use demographic data for these calculations. As a result, the AOW age rises in line with increasing life expectancy, creating a better balance between your pension benefits and working years.
In Rijswijk, this works in practice as follows: the age tracks the average life expectancy from age 65. If life expectancy rises by six months, the AOW age increases by three months. This is the 'limited linking' in place since 2024, following a period of full adjustment.
Legal basis
The foundation is the General Old Age Pensions Act (AOW), specifically Article 7 AOW. Key updates include:
- Act Amending the AOW Age Increase 2012 (Bulletin of Acts and Decrees 2012, 500), effective from 2013.
- Pension Agreement 2019 through the Future Pensions Act (since 1 January 2023), introducing limited linking from 2028.
- Article 7, paragraph 2 AOW: Determines the age based on life expectancy for the birth cohort.
Calculations follow the AOW Age Policy Rules of the SVB, supported by CBS data. For questions, Rijswijk residents can visit Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk for free advice.
Historical development of the AOW age
Since 2013, the AOW age has risen gradually. Overview for Rijswijk residents:
| Year | AOW Age | Reason/Increase |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 66 years and 8 months | Full linking |
| 2023 | 66 years and 4 months | Ongoing adjustment |
| 2024-2027 | 67 years and 3 months | Fixed period |
| 2028 and later | 67 years + variable | Limited linking (50% increase) |
Example: Born in 1958? From 2025, your AOW age is 67 years and 3 months. Later generations in Rijswijk may receive their pension later due to rising life expectancy.
Future outlook
From 2028, the half linking applies. CBS projections (May 2023) predict life expectancy at age 65 rising from 20.4 years (2023) to 21.5 years in 2040. This could result in 67 years and 6 months around 2030, and approximately 68 years in 2040 for Rijswijk residents.
The government evaluates this every two years. A decrease is possible if life expectancy falls, but trends indicate an increase. The Municipality of Rijswijk provides additional information on local senior schemes.
Rights and obligations regarding AOW age
Rights for Rijswijk residents:
- Automatic AOW start at your personal age.
- Check via Mijnpensioenoverzicht.nl.
- Pro-rata AOW upon emigration; consult SVB.
Obligations:
- Report address changes to SVB immediately.
- Continue paying premiums through employment or voluntarily.
- Plan ahead; you may need to work beyond AOW age.
Practical cases from Rijswijk
Case 1: Ms. Jansen from Rijswijk-Zuid (born 1960) starts AOW in 2027 at 67 years and 3 months, until around age 88.
Case 2: Mr. De Vries from Rijswijk-Buiten (born 1970) expects AOW in 2037 at 67 years and 8 months and is now arranging bridge pension.
These examples illustrate the impact on your planning. More info: AOW Age in Rijswijk.
Frequently asked questions
Can the AOW age decrease?
Yes, if life expectancy declines, though rare. SVB adjusts based on CBS data; check with Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk.
How do I calculate my AOW age?
Via SVB.nl or Mijnpensioenoverzicht.nl using your date of birth.
Does this apply to existing pensions?
No, your age is fixed by birth year.
Can I stop working earlier?
Arrange private or employer bridge pension; AOW starts later. Seek advice from Municipality of Rijswijk.
Tips for Rijswijk residents
Prepare by checking your AOW age, saving extra, and considering continued work. Contact Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk or Rechtbank Rijswijk for local advice in case of disputes.