What happens to everything you’ve worked so hard for when you’re no longer around? It’s a question many people put off, but avoiding it can leave your loved ones with legal hurdles, delayed access to funds, and unnecessary stress. Without proper planning, even the best intentions can fall apart.
Estate planning is one of the most effective ways to protect your assets and ease the burden on your family. In Singapore, 48% of adults don’t have a will, according to The Straits Times. That means a large number of families may be caught off guard when it matters most.
This article breaks down the key estate planning tools and tips to help you create a plan that reflects your wishes. Whether you’re managing property, raising young children, or running a business, planning ahead gives you clarity—and gives your loved ones peace of mind.
What Is Estate Planning?
Estate planning is the process of deciding how your assets and personal matters should be handled after your death or if you lose the ability to make decisions. It helps ensure that your wishes are clearly understood and legally followed.
In Singapore, this often involves writing a will, nominating beneficiaries for your CPF and insurance policies, and setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). Some may also include tools like trusts or an Advance Medical Directive. These steps can offer clarity, reduce future disputes, and provide peace of mind for you and your family
7 Essential Estate Planning Tools
1. Will
A will is a legal document that sets out how your assets should be distributed after your death. It ensures your wishes are followed and helps reduce delays or disputes among your loved ones.
To write a clear and valid will, you’ll need to:
- List your assets – This includes property, savings, insurance payouts, investments, and personal items. You don’t need to name everything, but having a clear idea helps guide your instructions.
- Name your beneficiaries – These are the people or organisations who will receive your assets. You can also list backup (reserve) beneficiaries in case your main choices cannot inherit.
- Appoint executors and trustees – Executors handle the legal process of carrying out your will. Trustees manage any assets you leave in trust, such as funds for a child’s education. One person can take on both roles.
- You may also include specific instructions—like keeping your home for your spouse, or setting aside money for a child’s future needs. If you have young children, you can name a legal guardian to care for them.
A will can be changed anytime, as long as you’re mentally capable. Reviewing it after key life changes, like marriage, is essential. (In Singapore, marriage cancels a prior will, but divorce does not.)
Without a will, your estate will be divided according to the Intestate Succession Act. This may not reflect your preferences and can result in a longer, more complex process.
2. Trusts
A trust is a legal arrangement that allows someone (called a trustee) to manage assets on behalf of another person (the beneficiary). It’s often used to protect wealth, manage inheritance for young or vulnerable beneficiaries, and ensure that assets are used according to specific wishes.
There are two common types of trusts in Singapore: testamentary trusts and inter vivos trusts.
A testamentary trust is created through a will and only takes effect after the person passes away. It’s useful if you want to delay giving assets to someone until they reach a certain age or meet certain conditions—like completing their studies or turning 25. This type of trust becomes legally binding once the will is executed after death.
An inter vivos trust, on the other hand, is set up while you’re still alive. It allows you to transfer property into the trust and lay out instructions on how and when the assets should be used. This can be helpful if you want to set aside funds for things like education, medical needs, or caring for a dependent.
Trusts offer flexibility and control. They’re especially helpful when:
- Beneficiaries are minors or financially inexperienced
- You want to control how money is spent
- You’re concerned about future legal claims or family disputes
- You wish to support a cause or fund specific expenses like education or healthcare
By creating a trust, you can ensure assets aren’t misused or distributed too early. You can also keep certain matters private, since trusts are not typically part of the public probate process.
To create a testamentary trust, you’ll need to:
- Write a will that clearly states the intention to set up a trust
- Appoint a trustee—this can be a person or a trust company
- Define the terms, including who the beneficiaries are, when and how the assets should be distributed, and any specific conditions
- Seek legal advice to make sure your instructions are valid and clearly worded
Once you pass away, your executor will work with the trustee to activate the trust as outlined in your will.
3. Central Provident Fund (CPF) Nomination
CPF savings are not covered by your will. They do not form part of your estate and are instead distributed directly to the people you’ve nominated through a CPF nomination.
Making a nomination allows you to decide exactly who receives your CPF money and in what share. Without one, your savings will be distributed according to Singapore’s intestacy laws—or Islamic inheritance law if you’re Muslim.
Here’s what happens if there’s no CPF nomination:
- Spouse only (no children or parents) – 100% goes to the spouse.
- Spouse and children – 50% to spouse, and 50% equally split among the children.
- No spouse or children, but surviving parents – The amount is shared equally between the parents.
- No surviving family – Funds go to the Government.
- For Muslims – Distribution follows the Inheritance Certificate from the Syariah Court.
To nominate someone, you can submit a form online via the CPF website or visit a CPF Service Centre in person. Either way, you’ll need two witnesses, both at least 21 years old.
When making a CPF nomination, you’ll decide:
- Who receives your savings
- How much each person receives
- How the money is paid out: lump sum (default), into their CPF accounts (Enhanced Nomination Scheme), or monthly (Special Needs Savings Scheme)
Marriage cancels any earlier CPF nomination. Divorce does not. It’s best to review your nomination when major life changes occur—like marriage, childbirth, or if a nominee passes away.
Updating your nomination is free and can be done at any time, as long as you’re mentally capable. This simple step ensures your CPF savings go exactly where you intend.
4. Insurance Nomination
An insurance nomination lets you decide who should receive the payout from your life insurance policy after your death. It’s not mandatory, but it can help avoid delays, especially if your will takes time to go through probate.
When no nomination is made, insurance proceeds may be paid to your estate and distributed according to your will—or under intestacy laws if there is no will. This can slow down access to funds your family may urgently need.
There are two types of insurance nominations in Singapore:
- Revocable Nomination – You keep control of the policy and can change, add, or remove nominees at any time.
- Trust (Irrevocable) Nomination – You give up ownership rights to the policy. Only your spouse and children can be nominated, and changes require all nominees’ consent.
A trust nomination is harder to reverse but offers stronger protection from creditors. In both cases, the insurance payout goes directly to your nominees and does not form part of your estate.
If you leave the nomination blank, your insurer may follow the instructions in your will—if one exists. Otherwise, distribution may fall back on default legal rules.
Making an insurance nomination is usually quick and free. It ensures your policy benefits go straight to the people you’ve chosen, with fewer complications.
5. Lasting Power Of Attorney (LPA)
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that lets you appoint someone you trust to make decisions for you if you lose mental capacity. This person is called a donee, and they can act on your behalf in two main areas—your personal welfare and your property or financial matters.
Without an LPA, your loved ones won’t automatically have the legal right to manage your affairs. Even with good intentions, they may need to go through the courts to access your bank accounts, insurance payouts, or make healthcare decisions.
You can name up to two donees, and they can act either together or separately. A replacement donee can also be appointed in case your original choice is unable to act when needed.
To set up an LPA in Singapore, you’ll need to complete a form and have it certified by a lawyer or an approved medical practitioner. The form must then be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian.
As of now, the registration fee for LPA Form 1 has been waived for Singapore citizens until 31 March 2026. This makes it easier and more affordable to plan ahead.
An LPA works alongside your will. While the will takes effect after your death, the LPA protects your interests while you’re still alive but unable to manage things yourself. It’s a key part of responsible estate planning.
6. Advance Medical Directive (AMD)
An Advance Medical Directive (AMD) is a legal document that tells your doctor not to use extraordinary life-sustaining treatments if you’re terminally ill and unable to make decisions. It applies only if you are unconscious or mentally incapable and have no chance of recovery.
The AMD must be made while you are mentally sound and at least 21 years old. It also requires two witnesses—one of whom must be your doctor. Both must have no personal interest in your death.
By signing an AMD, you make your wishes clear in advance, so your loved ones won’t have to make that difficult decision for you. It can also help avoid prolonged treatments that may not improve quality of life and could result in high medical costs.
Filing an AMD is optional, but it offers clarity and peace of mind. It ensures your care preferences are respected without placing extra emotional weight on your family.
7. Manner Of Holding Immovable Property
When it comes to real estate in Singapore, how you hold property with someone else can affect how it’s passed on after death. There are two common ways to co-own property: joint tenancy and tenancy-in-common.
In a joint tenancy, all owners share equal rights to the whole property. If one owner passes away, the surviving co-owner(s) automatically inherit the entire property. This is known as the right of survivorship, and the property won’t be included in the deceased’s estate or their will.
With a tenancy-in-common, each person owns a specific share—for example, 50% or 30%. Each share can be passed on through a will or dealt with independently.
| Feature | Joint Tenancy | Tenancy-in-Common |
| Ownership | Equal share of whole property | Defined percentage share |
| Upon death | Share goes to surviving co-owner(s) | Share goes to estate (via will) |
| Can specify in a will? | No | Yes |
| Common use | Married couples | Business partners, non-family co-owners |
| Convertible? | Yes, can switch between types | Yes, through legal process |
Married couples often choose joint tenancy for simplicity. But if you want control over who inherits your share, tenancy-in-common may be more suitable. You can also convert between the two, if your needs change over time.
Estate Planning For Special Situations
1. Estate Planning For Muslim Families
For Muslims in Singapore, estate planning follows Islamic principles and is governed by the Application of Muslim Law Act (AMLA). Unlike civil law, the distribution of a Muslim’s estate is guided by Faraid, which outlines fixed shares for eligible heirs based on religious teachings.
Faraid specifies who inherits and in what proportion. For example, a wife may receive one-eighth of the estate if there are children, and sons generally receive twice the share of daughters. These rules are designed to reflect fairness and family responsibility in Islam.
In addition to Faraid, Muslims can use tools like the Wasiat and Hibah. A Wasiat is an Islamic will that lets you give up to one-third of your estate to people or causes not entitled under Faraid—such as adopted children, non-Muslim relatives, or charities. It offers some flexibility but cannot override the shares assigned to direct heirs.
Hibah refers to gifts made while you’re still alive. These gifts aren’t restricted by Faraid and allow you to give freely to anyone you choose. It’s a practical way to support individuals not covered under inheritance law and ensure your intentions are honoured.
Estate planning for Muslim families involves balancing religious duties with personal wishes. Using Faraid, Wasiat, and Hibah together can help create a plan that aligns with both faith and family needs.
2. Estate Planning For Parents With Young Children
Parents with children below the age of 21 should consider who will look after their children if they pass away. One way to do this is by naming a guardian in your will, giving that person the legal right to manage your child’s care and wellbeing.
There are two types of guardians:
- Natural guardian – usually the surviving parent.
- Testamentary guardian – a person you legally appoint in your will to care for your child if both parents are no longer living.
According to Section 7 of the Guardianship of Infants Act, you can legally name a testamentary guardian in your will. This person will have the right to make decisions about your child’s education, healthcare, and overall welfare until the child turns 21.
If no guardian is appointed, and both parents pass away, anyone can apply to the court to take custody. The court will then decide based on what it believes is in the child’s best interest. In the absence of suitable applicants, the child may be placed in foster care or under the care of the Ministry of Social and Family Development.
By naming a guardian in your will, you avoid leaving such decisions to chance. It’s a practical and meaningful way to make sure your children are cared for by someone you trust.
3. Estate Planning For Families With Special Needs Dependents
Planning ahead is especially important when caring for a child or dependent with special needs. Their needs often extend well into adulthood and require long-term financial and caregiving support, even after their parents or guardians are gone.
Families can take several practical steps to ensure continuity of care:
- Set up a Special Needs Trust – This allows assets to be managed on the dependent’s behalf by a trustee. The Special Needs Trust Company (SNTC), a government-supported non-profit, offers affordable trust services for this purpose.
- Use the Special Needs Savings Scheme (SNSS) – Parents can nominate their child to receive monthly payouts from their CPF after their passing, instead of a lump sum.
- Write a Will with clear instructions – Assets can be directed to a trust rather than directly to the child, especially if the child cannot manage finances independently.
- Appoint a Testamentary Guardian – If your dependent is under 21, you can legally name someone in your will to take over caregiving.
- Apply for Deputyship under the Mental Capacity Act – If your child is over 21 and lacks mental capacity, you can apply to the court to appoint a deputy who can manage their affairs.
- Consider Insurance – Life insurance can provide a financial cushion for future caregiving expenses. Some insurers also offer plans tailored to individuals with special needs.
- Write a Letter of Intent – Though not legally binding, this document guides future caregivers by outlining your dependent’s routines, medical needs, and preferences.
By taking these steps, parents can secure both the financial and emotional well-being of their special needs dependents, even when they are no longer there to provide daily care.
Practical Tips To Avoid Common Estate Planning Mistakes
1. Keep A Clear Record Of All Your Assets
List everything you own, including:
- Properties (solo or joint ownership)
- Bank accounts and fixed deposits
- Insurance policies and investments
- Valuable items like jewellery or collectibles
Having this list makes it easier for your executors and family to carry out your wishes.
2. Choose The Right People
Appoint reliable executors, trustees, or guardians. Poor choices can create confusion, delays, or conflict later on.
3. Seek Legal Advice Early
A qualified lawyer can guide you through legal requirements and help prevent costly errors. This is especially useful if you have complex needs like business ownership or special dependents.
4. Watch Out For Family Conflicts
Ambiguous or unfair distributions can lead to disputes. Be clear in your will, and explain your choices when needed—either in person or through a side letter.
5. Update Your Plan Regularly
Regularly updating your estate plan ensures it stays relevant to your life and intentions. Major events like marriage, divorce, having children, or the death of a loved one can affect who you want to include or exclude. Your financial situation may also change—new assets, debts, or business interests could require adjustments to your plan.
It’s also important to check if your named beneficiaries, guardians, executors, or trustees are still suitable. Laws and policies may change over time, so a quick review every few years with legal guidance can help keep everything valid and aligned with your wishes.
Conclusion About Estate Planning In Singapore
Estate planning in Singapore isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s a practical step for anyone who wants to protect their loved ones and ensure their wishes are respected. With the right tools and guidance, you can make thoughtful decisions that offer clarity, security, and peace of mind.
At Tembusu Law, we offer reliable advice tailored to your situation. Our experienced estate lawyers help you make sense of wills, trusts, LPAs, and more—so you can plan with confidence and ease. Whether you’re just starting or need to update your plan, we’re ready to support you every step of the way.
Get in touch with us for a free legal consultation today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Estate Planning In Singapore
What Is Estate Planning In Singapore?
Estate planning is the process of deciding how your assets will be managed and distributed after your death or if you lose mental capacity. It includes tools like wills, trusts, CPF nominations, and LPAs.
How Much Does Estate Planning Cost In Singapore?
Costs vary based on complexity—simple wills may cost a few hundred dollars, while full estate plans involving trusts and legal advice can range from $1,000 to several thousand.
What Is The Best Way To Do Estate Planning?
The best way is to work with an experienced estate lawyer who can help you create a valid will, set up necessary nominations, and plan for dependents or unique needs.
What Is The Best Age To Start Planning For An Estate?
You can start as soon as you have dependents or significant assets—often in your 30s or 40s. But it’s never too early if you want control over how your affairs are handled.
Do Muslims In Singapore Need A Different Estate Plan?
Yes, Muslims must follow Islamic inheritance laws under Faraid, but they can also use tools like Wasiat and Hibah to align personal wishes with religious requirements.
