What is AOW pension?
The AOW pension is the Dutch basic state pension. Most people who live or work in the Netherlands are insured under the AOW pension scheme. You can get an AOW pension when you reach your AOW pension age.
See the frequently asked questions (FAQ) about AOW pension
Your AOW pension age depends on your date of birth. If you were born before 1 January 1959, you can find out your AOW pension age by using the calculation tool on this website. If you were born after 31 December 1958, your AOW pension age will be at least 67. Your definite AOW pension age will be fixed 5 years in advance. We therefore advise you to check your AOW pension age each year in January.
If you have always lived or worked in the Netherlands, you will get a full AOW pension at the rate applicable for you. The rate of your pension depends on your living situation, that is, whether you live alone or with someone else.
AOW payments are sent out on or around the 23rd of the month. If this date is a weekend or national holiday, the payment is usually sent out earlier. The exact time the money is credited to your account will depend on your bank. If you have an account outside the Netherlands, it may take longer before you receive our payments in your account. This will depend on your bank and the country where you live.
If you live in the Netherlands, you will receive a letter from us about claiming your AOW pension about 4 months before you reach your AOW pension age. You cannot submit a claim before you receive our letter. If you live outside the Netherlands, you can apply for an AOW pension to the pension institution in your country of residence or the last country where you were covered by state pension insurance.
You can view your annual statements in My SVB. In January, your annual statement will be sent to your home address or your digital Message Box (‘Berichtenbox’). If you live outside the Netherlands, your annual statement will be sent later. If your partner also receives an AOW pension, your annual statements may arrive on different days.