Limits in 2026
The general asset limit is €8,000 for a single person and €16,000 for a joint household or single parent in 2026. The municipality assesses possessions, applicable exemptions and evidenced debts. An owner-occupied home is assessed separately; the 2026 home-equity exemption is €67,500. Higher equity may mean assistance is provided as a loan, subject to conditions.
A pension is not ordinary accessible savings
An unpaid regular workplace pension is generally not freely available. An annuity, capital insurance policy or personal savings account does not automatically have the same protection. Supply the contract and request a written assessment before surrender or early payment. Specific statutory protection may apply; neither the product name nor an ability to surrender decides the matter alone.
Current pension payments are considered in the income test. Report any surrender payment; treatment as income or assets depends on the rules and the period to which it relates. Small pensions cannot simply be surrendered unilaterally. The small-pension threshold in 2026 is €632.63 gross a year, with separate transfer and surrender conditions.
Around AOW age
AOW and AIO are different schemes. Subject to conditions, AIO can top income up to the applicable level and also has an asset test. The SVB assesses income, household circumstances and applicable exemptions; supplementary pension does not therefore produce exactly the same deduction in every situation.
In the Netherlands, you can apply for AOW from four months before your AOW age. Municipal assistance does not automatically become AIO. Prepare the change with the municipality and SVB. Report changes and request a decision with objection information if you disagree. Municipal social advisers or the Juridisch Loket can explain your position.
What does BPH do?
Bureau Pensioen Hulp has no AFM licence. BPH provides general education and, on request, can introduce you to an external adviser using contact details only. BPH does not provide personal product recommendations, compare products for you or mediate in arranging them. Check an external adviser’s authorisation, services and fees yourself.
Frequently asked questions
Are the asset limits still €7,500 and €15,000?
No. In 2026 the general limits are €8,000 and €16,000, depending on household circumstances.
Is every product called a pension protected?
No. Have legal conditions and applicable exemptions assessed for each product.
Sources and reference date
Reference date: 28 October 2026. Check your own scheme and current conditions before deciding.