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

As of 2023, the Future of Pensions Act (Wtp) reforms the Dutch pension system, directly impacting self-employed professionals (ZZP'ers) in Delft who do not have voluntary AOW (General Old Age Pensions Act) insurance. In Delft, where many self-employed individuals work in tech, creative sectors, and at universities such as TU Delft, there is no mandatory pension accrual. However, the Wtp offers voluntary participation in sector pension funds with a premium scale, ideal for Delft residents in innovative clusters. The AOW remains the foundation, but the Wtp accelerates the transition to defined contribution schemes. Benefits include a higher coverage ratio and improved indexation, aligning with Delft's dynamic economy. Self-employed professionals in Delft can join the Old Age Reserve (FOR) for tax-efficient accrual, with a maximum of 9.44% of profits in Box 3. Unlike the AOW, the FOR offers more flexible payouts and personal investment choices, which is advantageous for entrepreneurs in the Delft station area. Costs involve a voluntary premium of approximately 10-15% of income. Article 90 of the Wtp specifically governs ZZP participation. In practice in Delft, registration with local pension funds for a uniform agreement is often done via the Delft Chamber of Commerce (KvK). Returns may exceed AOW due to market investments, though there is no payout guarantee. A strategy for Delft residents is to supplement the AOW gap with the FOR and Wtp, considering the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration's annual margin. Example: With a profit of €50,000, reserve €4,500 for pension accrual. Be future-proof with the Wtp transition by 2028, supported by local networks such as the Delft Entrepreneurs Association.