Norway’s National Insurance Scheme provides critical benefits to retirees, but contributions don’t stop when you reach 65. Fortunately, seniors in Norway enjoy reduced social security contribution rates, designed to ease the financial burden in retirement. Here’s what you need to know for 2025 and 2026.
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📌 Who Pays Social Security Contributions in Retirement?
In Norway, both employees and retirees continue to contribute to the National Insurance Scheme through social security contributions. These contributions help finance healthcare, pensions, and welfare benefits. However, seniors enjoy lower rates compared to workers in their prime years.
💰 Contribution Rates for Seniors
The rates vary by age group and income type. For 2025 and 2026, here’s the breakdown:
- Under 17 years or over 69 years: 5.1% on personal income.
- Ages 17–69: Standard rate of 7.8% on salary and pensions.
- Self-employed seniors: 11% of personal income.
Importantly, income below NOK 99,650 is exempt, and contributions cannot exceed 25% of income above that threshold.
🧾 Example: How a Retired Senior Pays Less
Consider Anna, a 70-year-old Norwegian retiree with a pension income of NOK 300,000 in 2025:
- Standard rate (7.8%) would have been NOK 23,400.
- As a senior, she pays the reduced 5.1% rate: NOK 15,300.
- Total savings: NOK 8,100 annually.
This reduction ensures more disposable income for seniors living on fixed pensions.
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🌍 Exemptions and International Considerations
Seniors who live abroad or receive pensions from multiple countries may be exempt from Norwegian contributions if:
- They are covered under a social security agreement with Norway (e.g., EU/EEA, U.S., Canada).
- They can prove adequate pension coverage in their home country.
- They successfully apply for exemption through the Norwegian Tax Administration.
⚠️ Common Mistakes Seniors Should Avoid
- Assuming contributions stop automatically at retirement age.
- Not applying for exemption under international agreements.
- Forgetting to update their tax deduction card (skattekort), leading to incorrect withholding.
💡 Tips to Reduce Your Tax Burden in Retirement
- Ensure you benefit from the reduced 5.1% senior rate after 69.
- Use available deductions like interest expenses and charitable contributions.
- Plan withdrawals from pensions and savings to stay in lower tax brackets.
- Consult a professional if you receive pensions from both Norway and abroad.
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