W Rotterdam, een van de grootste zakelijke centra van Nederland, zijn zelfstandigen steeds vaker afhankelijk van een arbeidsongeschiktheidsverzekering (AOV) om hun bedrijf te beschermen. Een AOV biedt financiële zekerheid wanneer zelfstandigen door ziekte of ongeluk niet in staat zijn te werken. In dit artikel bespreken we de belangrijkste aspecten van AOV voor zelfstandigen in Rotterdam.
Insurance for Self-Employed Individuals against Incapacity for Work (AOV)Insurance for Self-Employed Individuals against Incapacity for Work (AOV)
As a self-employed individual, such as an independent contractor (zzp'er) or freelancer, you do not have automatic protection against loss of income due to illness or incapacity for work. Employees are covered by the Sickness Act and the Work Incapacity Insurance Act (WIA), but for you, an Insurance for Self-Employed Individuals against Incapacity for Work (AOV) is essential. This article explains what an AOV is, why you need it, and how to take one out. Practical advice for starters and experienced entrepreneurs.
What is an AOV and why do you need it?
An AOV pays out a benefit if you are unable to work (fully) due to illness or accident. This compensates for your lost income, so you can pay your bills and keep your business running. Without an AOV, you would have to rely on your savings, buffer, or assistance - which is often insufficient.
Why specifically for self-employed individuals? According to UWV figures, 1 in 4 independent contractors becomes incapacitated for work before retirement. On average, this lasts 2 to 5 years. An AOV covers up to 80% of your income, depending on your policy. It prevents financial stress and bankruptcy of your business.What does an AOV cover exactly?
A standard AOV reimburses:
- Loss of income: A monthly amount based on your average turnover or profit (often 70-80%).
- Own risk: Usually 30 days to 2 years, during which you pay yourself.
- Extras: Sometimes travel costs, study costs, or partner assistance.
- Pre-existing conditions (medical examination required).
- Mental health complaints (such as burnout) - check if this is covered.
- Own fault (e.g., reckless behavior).
There are variants: full AOV (highest coverage), light incapacity for work AOV (LOA) (cheaper, benefit if 35-65% less work) or passive AOV (only in case of full invalidity, from €20/month).
Step-by-step plan: How to take out an AOV?
Follow these concrete steps for the best choice:
1. Determine your income and buffer
Calculate your net annual income (turnover minus costs). Multiply by 70-80% for the desired benefit. Build a buffer of 6-12 months' expenses via a savings account.
2. Create a risk profile
Age, health, industry, and working hours affect the premium. Young and fit? Lower costs. High-risk professions (construction, healthcare) pay more. Use online calculation tools for an indication.
3. Compare policies
Look at premium, coverage, own risk, and term (until age 67?). Request quotes from multiple providers. Pay attention to:
| Aspect | Tip |
|--------|-----|
| Premium | Choose payment form: fixed, decreasing, or indexed (most ideal). |
| Own risk | Longer = cheaper, but risky. |
| Term | Until state pension age for full protection. |
| Indexation | Annual adjustment to inflation. |
4. Investigate medical examination
Fill in a health declaration. For complex health: have your GP take a look. Some policies offer 'no questions' variants (more expensive).
5. Take out and check annually
Sign digitally. Review policy in case of income changes or life stage (children, mortgage).
Tip: Start early - premiums increase with age. For starters: consider collective AOV via industry associations (often sharper).Costs and savings tips
Premiums vary from €50 to €300 per month, depending on income (€30,000-€100,000/year) and profile. Save by:
- Choosing LOA or passive variant.
- Extending own risk (saves 20-30%).
- Health check: Quit smoking, exercising reduces risk.
- Hybrid insurance: Combine with accident or health insurance.
Tax benefit: Premiums are deductible as business expenses (deduction percentage depending on income, check Tax Administration).
Alternatives to an AOV
No AOV possible? Consider:
- Bread fund: Informal savings pot with independent contractors (up to 70% income, max. 2 years). Low entry (€35/month).
- Building up a reserve: Deposit monthly into a business savings account.
- Basic income via municipality: Necessary, but low (approx. €1,200 net).
- Industry buffers: Via KVK or professional association.
No alternative fully replaces an AOV - combine them.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Too low coverage: Based on actual income, not net salary.
- No indexation: Inflation eats up benefit.
- Forgetting partner: Also cover your partner as co-entrepreneur.
- Not claiming: Report within 14 days of illness.
Conclusion: Take action today
An AOV is your safety net as a self-employed individual. It provides peace of mind and protects your business. Start with an income calculation and compare quotes - within an hour you'll know more. If in doubt: consult an advisor via your accountant or legal loket. Better prepared than surprised. Protect your future now!