AOW Deferral: Rules and Consequences
**AOW deferral** means that you can defer your **AOW entitlement age** (the age at which you are entitled to the basic pension benefit) by a maximum of **5 years**. This can be financially advantageous, but it also has important consequences for your benefit. In Delft, you can go to the **Juridisch Loket Delft** for free advice on your AOW options. Discover the rules, conditions and practical consequences here.
What is AOW deferral?
**AOW deferral** is an option to defer your **AOW entitlement age** (the age at which you are entitled to the basic pension benefit) by a maximum of **5 years**. This means that you start your AOW later, but receive a higher monthly benefit. The AOW is a benefit that everyone in the Netherlands receives when he or she reaches the **AOW age** (in 2024: 67 years and 3 months). By deferring, you can extend your pension period and thereby increase your total AOW income. Residents of Delft can contact the **SVB** with questions about AOW or seek local advice at the **Juridisch Loket Delft**.
Legal basis
The rules regarding AOW deferral are laid down in the **General Old Age Pensions Act** (Wet op de AOW) and the **AOW Decree**. In addition, the **Social Insurance Funding Act** (Wfsv) plays a role in the calculation of the benefit. Disputes about this fall under the **District Court of The Hague** (district for Delft). The main points are:
- Article 11 of the General Old Age Pensions Act: Addresses the option to defer the AOW age.
- Article 12 of the General Old Age Pensions Act: Describes the calculation of the increased AOW benefit upon deferral.
- AOW Decree, Article 1.1: Provides the exact conditions and procedure for applying for deferral.
Conditions for AOW deferral
To qualify for AOW deferral, a number of conditions must be met. Residents of Delft can get help with the application via the **Juridisch Loket Delft**:
- You are at least 65 years old (in 2024, the AOW age gradually increases to 67 years and 3 months). You can only apply for deferral once you reach this age.
- You have no right to a (partial) AOW benefit at the time of application. This means you have not yet started your AOW.
- You defer your AOW by a maximum of 5 years. This is the maximum period you can defer. For example: if you turn 67 years and 3 months in 2024, you can defer your AOW until 2029.
- You report your choice in time. You must notify the **SVB (Social Insurance Bank)** of your deferral at least **3 months before the date on which you would normally receive AOW**. In Delft, the **Juridisch Loket** is a good first stop for guidance.
How is your AOW calculated upon deferral?
If you defer your AOW, you receive a higher monthly benefit. This is because your AOW income is spread over a shorter period. The exact amount of your benefit depends on:
- The **duration of the deferral** (1 to 5 years).
- The **average life expectancy** at the time of deferral.
- The **indexation** of your AOW during the deferral.
The SVB uses a specific formula to calculate your increased AOW. In general, the longer you defer, the higher your monthly benefit. Below is an example of the increase for different deferral periods (based on current rules). For residents of Delft: check your personal situation at the **Juridisch Loket Delft**.
| Deferral duration (years) | AOW benefit increase (%) | Example (with a normal AOW of €1,500) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | ~5% | €1,575 per month |
| 2 years | ~10% | €1,650 per month |
| 3 years | ~15% | €1,725 per month |
| 4 years | ~20% | €1,800 per month |
| 5 years | ~25% | €1,875 per month |
Important: The exact percentages may vary per year, as they are based on life expectancy and the current AOW rules. For an accurate calculation, you can use the SVB AOW calculator, consult an independent financial advisor or visit the **Juridisch Loket Delft**.
Consequences of AOW deferral
AOW deferral has not only advantages, but also disadvantages. Below is an overview of the main consequences. For legal issues in Delft: the **District Court of The Hague** has jurisdiction.
Advantages
- Higher monthly benefit: Due to the deferral, you receive a permanently higher amount per month, ideal for long-term financial planning in your Delft retirement years.
- Flexibility: During the deferral period, you can work and build up income, while your AOW starts later.
- Indexation benefits: Your AOW is included in the annual increases during deferral.
Disadvantages
- No income during deferral period: You temporarily receive no AOW, which carries risks in case of health problems.
- Irreversible after start: Once you have started deferral, you cannot stop it midway.