Note 263 — Chapter XIII · VOLUNTARY AND SUBSIDIZED SYSTEMS OF OLD AGE INSURANCE

According to the latest information available, Belgium has apparently abandoned its voluntary system and has adopted instead a straight pension plan. The December, 1820, American Labour Legislation Review (page 230) states that on Aug. 20, 1820, a new old age pension law was enacted in Belgium. “Persons born before 1858 upon reaching the age of 65 are to receive an annual pension of from 600 to 720 francs. This amount will be reduced if the claimant has an independent income, but certain sources of income are exempt. The cost of the pensions is to be shared five-eighths by the state, one-eighth by the province and two-eighths by the commune.”