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The Zwitserleven story of

Gerard

Gerard has always worked hard. But the older he got, the more he felt the desire to do something good for society. That's why he retired early to become a volunteer.

Readtime - 5 min

"Last year, I started to feel the itch. I had the feeling that I wanted to 'do' something good. Something for society, to make myself useful. And preferably at a place where I really enjoy going: the football club. Working with young people with intellectual disabilities is so beautiful. It gives me energy. Much more energy than I got from my job. I thought, that's what I want to do all day."

Gerard's Pension Story

"Retiring early was the solution. Retiring early meant that I could finally start working full-time as a volunteer at my football club. Together with an adviser, I calculated what that would mean for my budget. And luckily, it was possible!

We also looked at the option of a temporary higher pension, and later a lower pension. Because I don't receive a state pension yet, a temporary higher pension is welcome! This way, I can also continue to pay off the last bit of my mortgage every month.

I do like peace and regularity. That's why I was so happy with my defined benefit pension. Just knowing what you get. That suits me best. Moreover, I don't have a partner who can step in if necessary. The money I get is all there is. And then I prefer certainty. Of course, it also helps that I don't need to arrange a partner's pension."