Dreaming of early retirement? You're not alone. Many people long to stop working sooner, and with the Early Retirement Scheme (RVU), this could very well become a reality. However, the scheme isn't accessible to everyone: there are specific conditions you need to meet. Furthermore, you need your employer's consent, but they are not obliged to cooperate. Read below everything you need to know about the RVU.
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Wat is de RVU?
Thanks to the Early Retirement Scheme (RVU), you can stop working earlier. Your employer will then pay you an amount monthly or as a one-off payment to bridge the period of retirement until your state pension age. The scheme runs until the end of 2025. This means you can use it if your state pension date is 31 December 2028 or earlier – but only if it is included in your collective labour agreement (cao) or if you agree it with your employer. So, it might be a good idea to review your plans for this year carefully.
How exactly does the RVU work?
Your employer may make a one-off or monthly payment to you, free of penalties – but not tax-free – between your departure from employment and your retirement. The maximum RVU amount for 2025 has been set at € 2,273 gross per month. You may be able to top up this amount from your own funds or by taking early retirement. Please note: you are not automatically entitled to an RVU scheme; this must be included in the collective labour agreement or you must reach an agreement with your employer regarding this.
If you make use of the RVU scheme, your employment will end. This has consequences for your survivor's pension. If you unexpectedly pass away, your partner will receive less – and possibly no – survivor's pension at all. Therefore, ensure you are well informed about all the consequences before making a decision about the RVU.
Read on!
Do you want to know more about the possibilities and conditions of the RVU scheme? Then view the links above for extensive information.
- What does the relaxation of the RVU scheme mean for older employees? (Source: Dutch government)
- I do heavy work. Can I stop working earlier? (Source: Dutch government)
- Een RVU is een regeling voor vervroegd uittreden. (Source: PolicyImplementation)
- What should I consider regarding an early retirement benefit (RVU) and partner's pension on a risk basis? (Source: PolicyImplementation)
Want to know more?
Do you have questions about the RVU scheme or your pension planning? Take a look at The Dutch government's website Please contact our Service Centre. We are available every weekday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm via sc@unie.nl and 0345 851 963.
