Orphan's Pension: Support for Children After a Parent's Death in Den Haag
Orphan's pension provides financial assistance to children in Den Haag whose parent has passed away. This benefit continues until the child turns 18 or pursues studies. Orphans receive a monthly payment through the General Survivors Act (Anw) and employer pensions. This article from Legal Aid, an initiative of Arslan Advocaten, fully informs Den Haag residents. For questions: call the Juridisch Loket Den Haag for free advice.
What is Orphan's Pension?
Orphan's pension, or orphan's benefit, is survivors' pension for young or studying children. It covers income loss due to a parent's death. Main types:
- Anw orphan's benefit: Applied for at the Social Insurance Bank (SVB), based on the deceased's AOW.
- Pension fund orphan's pension: Additional benefit via the employer's pension scheme, such as ABP for Gemeente Den Haag employees.
Legal Basis for Orphan's Pension
The rules are set out in Dutch legislation:
- General Survivors Act (Anw): Chapter 3, Articles 24-30, for basic benefits to children of AOW-insured persons.
- Pension Act (Pw): Article 72 requires funds like ABP or PFZW to provide orphan's pension (40-70% of parent's pension).
- WIA and Sickness Benefits Act: Temporary benefits in case of the parent's illness or work incapacity.
Eligibility for Orphan's Pension in Den Haag
Eligibility requires:
- Child under 18, or 18-27 and studying (no full-time job).
- Deceased was insured under Anw (AOW) or had a pension scheme.
- Residence in the Netherlands or EU (with conditions).
- Family income below Anw threshold of €25,000 gross (2024).
Comparison: Anw vs. Pension Fund
| Aspect | Anw Orphan's Benefit | Pension Fund Orphan's Pension |
|---|---|---|
| Applicant | SVB | Pension fund (e.g., ABP) |
| Amount | Fixed: ~€390 net (2024) | Variable: 20-40% of parent's pension |
| Duration | Until 18/27 if studying | Similar, sometimes shorter |
| Income Test | Strict | Often none |
How Much Orphan's Pension and for How Long?
The amount varies:
- Anw: €390.17 for first child, €195.09 for subsequent children (net, 2024).
- Pension fund: Typically 30% of parent's pension per child, €200-€500 gross.
Examples of Orphan's Pension in Den Haag
Example 1: Lisa (12) from Den Haag loses her father, a civil servant with Gemeente Den Haag (ABP). Anw (€390) + ABP (€250) = €640 net until age 18.
Example 2: Tim (20), an HBO student in Den Haag, mother deceased. Earns €10,000/year part-time: Anw continues (below threshold), plus fund €300 until graduation.
Example 3: Both parents deceased: No doubling, but SVB supplement possible.
Rights and Obligations
Rights:
- Automatic notification to SVB after death.
- Backdated up to 1 year.
- Objection/appeal at Rechtbank Den Haag (via rechtspraak.nl).
- Report death within 8 days to Gemeente Den Haag and SVB.
- Notify changes in studies, work, or address.
- Provide income proof.
Applying for Orphan's Pension in Den Haag
- Apply at SVB (via Mijn SVB online) and pension fund.
- Submit death certificate, birth certificate, IBAN.
- Decision within 8 weeks.
- Pension fund: See Pension and Death. Assistance via Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
FAQ: Orphan's Pension in Den Haag
Do I get benefits without a parent's pension?
No, Anw requires AOW insurance. Anw as base only. Check UWV or Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
Up to what age?
Automatically until 18. 18-27 if studying (MBO+), proof required.
Working alongside benefits?
Yes, but Anw income < €25,000 gross (2024). Funds more lenient.
In case of divorce/stepparent?
Stepchildren entitled if cohabiting. Anw often stops after remarriage, unless adoption.