Dick Laduc (65), retired, formerly ING
04-09-2025
Dick Laduc (65) is enjoying his retirement together with his wife, thanks partly to the choices he made before retiring. He decided to retire early and opted for a state-pension (AOW) bridging benefit combined with a ‘first more-than less’ construction.
Once I receive AOW at age 67 and three months, my pension benefit will decrease.
Dick Laduc worked at ING for 41 years, building up his pension at Pensioenfonds ING until 2014 and then at ING CDC Pensioenfonds from 2014 to 2020. For both funds, he chose to benefit from the state pension bridging option until he reaches the state pension age. ‘For the state pension bridging benefit, I selected the 100:75 ratio,’ he explains. He also opted for an earlier retirement, initially receiving a higher pension, followed by a lower one.
Retiring earlier
Dick had the opportunity to retire at 61 instead of 67, thanks to a social regulation. That made his decision to retire early an easy one. “I took advantage of that regulation because you never know how much time you have left. We have two sons who live abroad, and we want to travel more, while we are still relatively young and healthy. We’re crazy about Greece and love road trips.” Of course, retiring earlier often means a lower income. “At a certain point, you need a solid plan, because once you’ve made your choices, there’s no going back.” To prepare, Dick attended the Inzicht in mijn pensioen (Understanding my pension) webinar, filled in the Pension Planner and sought advice from a financial adviser. “It quickly became clear that we wouldn’t have enough pension until we reached the state pension age. The state-pension (AOW) bridging benefit helped us bridge that gap.”
To bridge the gap, I will receive a state-pension (AOW) bridging benefit until I receive AOW
First more, than less
Looking back, Dick is very satisfied with the choices made, which took effect on 1 April 2024. “So far, things are working out even better than expected. Once I receive AOW at age 67 and three months, my pension benefit will decrease.” His advice to others? Make sure you’re well informed before making any final decisions, just as he did.