Here is how you can make that choice
Below you will find the steps you can take to make a choice that suits you.
Step 1 Read up on the options
Read more about the differences between a fixed and a variable pension and watch the video about the choice later on. This will give you an idea of the key features and differences.
Step 2 Identify your interests
Based on the information from step 1 and any external sources, decide what suits you best.
Is a variable pension the best option for you?
If so, you do not need to do anything just yet.
Are you considering a fixed pension?
Then you can already do the following. SSPF has a partnership with Zwitserleven. This makes it easier for you to request a sample calculation and a quotation from Zwitserleven and, if you wish, choose a fixed pension. This is entirely without obligation. Interested? Please let us know by 15 December 2026 at the latest. You will then receive a sample calculation by 1 February 2027 and a quotation in the spring of 2027. If you live abroad and receive a pension from Shell Pensioen, you will not be able to take advantage of Zwitserleven’s offer.
From December 2026 to spring 2027: make your first comparison
Step 3 First calculation
At the end of November, you will receive the provisional calculation of your variable pension under the new scheme.
Step 4 Explore your options
The provisional calculation you receive from SSPF will give you an overview of your variable pension under the new scheme.
Are you interested in a fixed pension?
And have you indicated by 15 December 2026 that you would like to receive a sample calculation from Zwitserleven? If so, you will receive it before 1 February 2027. You can also use this sample calculation to make calculations on comparison websites or request calculations from other insurance companies. At this stage, there is no need to request quotations yet, as these are often only valid for a short period.
In the spring of 2027: requesting and comparing
Step 5 Final calculation
In the spring, you will receive the final calculation of your variable pension from SSPF. Shortly afterwards, you will receive a letter with further details about your variable pension and how to make a choice.
Step 6 Are you interested in a fixed pension? You can request quotations
The final calculation of your variable pension will show your starting capital as at 1 January 2027. You can use this starting capital to request quotations from insurers that offer fixed pensions. We also refer to this as ‘shopping around’. You can do this via a comparison website, an adviser or directly with the insurance company. There are several insurance companies. You can find them by searching in a search engine for, for example, ‘purchasing a fixed pension from an insurance company’ or ‘immediately commencing pension’.
Please bear the following in mind when requesting a quotation
- Make sure to include the amount of your personal pension capital. You will find this in the final calculation under ‘starting capital’ and in the (digital) choice letter.
The final value at the time your capital is transferred to the insurance company may still change slightly. The following are automatically taken into account:- benefits you have already received
- investment results
- You may not change the choices you made previously. Examples include the high-low pension and partner’s pension. As a result, an insurance company may not be able to offer you a pension.
- You may only purchase a pension benefit from an insurance company authorised under Dutch law to pay out pension benefits.
- Each insurance company has its own terms and conditions for accepting an application and determining the amount of the pension.
- Do you live abroad and receive a pension from Shell Pensioen? Then you are not able to take advantage of Zwitserleven’s offer.
Step 7 Comparing calculations
When comparing quotations, you can look at the amount of the benefit, whether your previous choices have been taken into account, and how long the quotation is valid for. Compare the quotations with the letter you receive from us regarding a variable pension with SSPF. Based on the amounts and features of a fixed and variable pension, you can decide which suits you best.
Spring/summer 2027: submit your choice
Step 8 Submit your choice
You can let us know your choice as soon as you have received a (digital) letter regarding this. You will receive this shortly after the final calculation of your new pension.
Do you choose a variable pension?
If you do, your pension will remain with SSPF. You can confirm this choice in the spring of 2027 via my-Shell pension. You only need to do this once we have sent you a message about it. If you receive our letters by post, you can let us know your choice via my-Shell pension or using the form we send you.
Do you choose a fixed pension?
If you choose a fixed pension, you will need to arrange this yourself with an insurance company. Once you have accepted a quotation from the insurance company, the insurance company and SSPF will coordinate the details. You can then also submit your choice via my-Shell pension. If SSPF receives all the necessary documents from the insurance company on time, SSPF will transfer your pension capital.
What happens if you do not make a choice?
In that case, you will automatically receive a variable benefit from SSPF.
Disclaimer
The timeline we have outlined above is the one we are currently using. As we are going through a major change, these dates may still change. We will, of course, keep you informed of any changes. These steps are primarily intended to give you an insight into the process of choosing between a fixed or variable pension. We will guide you through every step.