The AOW Pension Age Is Changing - Here's What It Means for You
Published: · 5 min read · By Taxmo
What Is AOW?
The AOW (Algemene Ouderdomswet) is the Dutch state pension - a basic monthly income provided by the government once you reach the official retirement age. Everyone who has lived or worked in the Netherlands builds up AOW rights, including expats.
AOW Age Timeline 2025-2031
| Year | AOW Age | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 67 years | Confirmed |
| 2026 | 67 years | Current |
| 2027 | 67 years | Confirmed |
| 2028 | 67 years + 3 months | Confirmed |
| 2029 | 67 years + 3 months | Confirmed |
| 2030 | 67 years + 3 months | Confirmed |
| 2031 | 67 years + 3 months | Confirmed |
After 2031, the AOW age adjusts based on life expectancy data published by Statistics Netherlands (CBS). For every additional year of life expectancy, the AOW age goes up by eight months.
How Does This Affect Your Taxes?
Once you reach the AOW age, you stop paying AOW premiums - lowering your effective income tax rate on the first bracket significantly. In 2026, people below the AOW age pay 35.75% on income up to €38,883. A later AOW age means paying the higher premium-inclusive rate for a bit longer.
Freelancers & ZZP'ers: AOW Alone Won't Cut It
Unlike employees, freelancers in the Netherlands have no employer building a pension for them. The state pension alone - €1,637.57 gross per month for a single person - is unlikely to maintain your lifestyle in retirement. Options include jaarruimte (tax-deductible annuity contributions), banksparen, private investments, and voluntary pension funds.
Current AOW Amounts (2026)
| Situation | Gross/month | Net/month | Holiday allowance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single person | €1,637.57 | €1,558.15 | €106.55 |
| Married/cohabiting (per person) | €1,122.12 | €1,067.70 | €76.10 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AOW pension age in 2026?
The AOW pension age in 2026 is 67 years. It remains at 67 through 2027, then rises to 67 years and 3 months from 2028.
How much AOW pension do you get per month?
A single person receives €1,637.57 gross per month (€1,558.15 net). Married or cohabiting partners receive €1,122.12 gross per person per month.
Do freelancers get a pension in the Netherlands?
Freelancers receive the AOW state pension, but unlike employees, they have no employer pension. ZZP'ers should build supplementary retirement income through jaarruimte, banksparen, or private investments.