Orphan's Pension Duration in Rotterdam: Until When?
For Rotterdam children, the orphan’s pension duration refers to the period during which they receive financial support following the death of a parent. This typically lasts until age 18 or 21, with possible extensions for studies under the Anw or Pension Act. Learn the precise rules, conditions, and examples from Rotterdam practice, including assistance via the Juridisch Loket Rotterdam.
What is an orphan's pension?
An orphan's pension provides financial support to children when a parent passes away, particularly during their upbringing in Rotterdam. There are two types: AOW orphan's pension from the national insurance scheme and employer's pension orphan's pension from workplace pensions. This article focuses on the duration, as a follow-up to our overview of survivors' pensions for residents of the port city.
Legal Framework
The duration of orphan's pension in Rotterdam is governed by:
- General Survivors Act (Anw): for AOW orphan's pension (arts. 56-59). A simplified version since 1 July 2024.
- Pension Act (PW): for workplace pensions (arts. 68 and 75). Minimum requirements apply, but specifics depend on the fund's regulations.
SVB administers AOW benefits; pension funds or insurers handle workplace pensions. Rotterdam survivors can turn to the Juridisch Loket Rotterdam for questions.
Duration of AOW Orphan's Pension (Anw) for Rotterdam Children
This benefit normally ends in the month the child turns 18 (art. 57 Anw). No automatic extension for studies. Entitlement only if:
- Child under 18 at the time of death.
- Both parents deceased, or the deceased was a single parent without a partner/ex holding parental authority.
Amount: 70% of the parent's AOW (half if one parent; full if both). In Rotterdam, often combined with local supplements from the Municipality of Rotterdam.
Duration of Employer's Pension Orphan's Pension
For workplace-related pensions, the orphan’s pension duration in Rotterdam extends further. Standard:
- Full orphan's pension: until age 21 (PW art. 68(2)).
- Half orphan's pension: also until age 21 if one parent deceased.
Extensions for studies or unemployment up to age 27-30 are common, provided notified to the fund – ideal for Rotterdam students at Erasmus University.
Comparison of AOW and Employer's Pension in Rotterdam
| Aspect | AOW Orphan's Pension (Anw) | Employer's Pension (PW) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Duration | Until 18 | Until 21 |
| Study Extension | No | Yes, up to 27-30 |
| Conditions | Both parents deceased or single parent | Child <21, studying/unemployed |
| Amount | €250-€500 p.m. (2024) | 30-70% of parent's pension |
| Paying Party | SVB | Pension fund/insurer |
Extension Conditions
AOW offers no extensions. For employer's pensions in Rotterdam:
- Recognized education (MBO, HBO, university such as at Hogeschool Rotterdam).
- Income below franchise (approx. €15,000-€20,000/year).
- Submit proof: enrollment, income statement.
Cohabitation or full-time employment often ends the extension.
Real-Life Cases from Rotterdam
Case 1: AOW Orphan's Pension
Mother from Rotterdam-Feijenoord passes away in 2024; 16-year-old child lives with father. No benefit unless father also passes away – then until 18.
Case 2: Employer's Pension Extension
Father from Rotterdam-West passes away; 19-year-old studies at Erasmus University. Basic until 21, extended to 25 with part-time job under threshold. Funds like ABP check annually.
Case 3: Ends Due to Income
22-year-old from Rotterdam-Zuid starts job earning €25,000: pension ends, even while studying.
Rights and Obligations of Rotterdam Survivors
Rights:
- Automatic start after death notification.
- Backdated to date of death.
- Appeal to District Court Rotterdam (within 6 weeks).
Obligations:
- Report changes (address, studies, income, cohabitation) within 1 month.
- Repay overpayments.
- Annual review for extensions.
Frequently Asked Questions Rotterdam
Until when does orphan's pension last in Rotterdam?
AOW: until 18. Employer's pension: until 21 (extendable). Check your fund regulations or consult Juridisch Loket Rotterdam.
Does it stop during extension?
Yes, upon end of studies, high income, cohabitation, or maximum age. Timely reporting avoids fines.
Studies abroad for Rotterdam kids?
AOW: no if abroad. Employer's pension: often yes, if covered by regulations and income reported.
Applies to stepchildren?
Yes, if parental authority and insured; check regulations via local advisors.
Tips for Rotterdam Families
Maximize orphan’s pension duration in Rotterdam:
- Check documents: Parent's UPO and Anw with SVB.
- Report immediately: After death, contact SVB (0800-4680468) or fund.
- Plan ahead: Build a buffer; link with DUO student finance or Municipality of Rotterdam supplements.
- Seek help: Free advice at Juridisch Loket Rotterdam for complex cases.
- Local: District Court Rotterdam for disputes.