Practical Guide To Managing A Loved One’s Estate After Their Death

Losing someone close is heartbreaking. The paperwork that follows can feel just as heavy, especially when you are managing a loved one’s estate after their death in Singapore. Bank forms, Court rules and family expectations pile up overnight.

This guide will keep things simple, show you the order of tasks, and help you protect the wishes your loved one left behind.

The First 48 Hours: Documents And Immediate Tasks To Do

When someone close to you passes away, the first couple of days can feel like a blur. Emotions are high, yet there are a few practical steps that need your attention quite quickly. These early actions are important for laying the groundwork when you’re managing a loved one’s estate after their death in Singapore.

Here’s what you should prioritise:

1. Register The Death And Obtain The Death Certificate
   You’ll need to register the death online via the MyLegacy portal. Once done, you’ll receive a digital Death Certificate – this is the key document you’ll be using to notify banks, insurers, and government agencies.
2. Locate The Original Will (If There Is One)
   If your loved one left a will, it’s usually stored somewhere safe – a home safe, a bank deposit box, or with a lawyer. You’ll need the original physical copy, not just a scanned version. This document names the executor, the person who will handle the estate.
3. Secure Important Personal Documents And Asset Information
   Keep your loved one’s NRIC, passport, marriage certificate, and property titles close by. Also, begin compiling bank statements, insurance policies, loan records, car ownership papers, and information about any shares or foreign assets. The more complete your file, the easier the next steps will be.
4. Notify Banks To Temporarily Freeze Accounts
   Inform the banks of the death using the Death Certificate. This prevents unauthorised withdrawals and protects the estate’s value. Don’t worry, essential recurring payments, like utilities and property taxes, can usually still go through.
5. Reach Out To Family Members Calmly
   In some cases, multiple people may feel they have the right to manage the estate. If emotions are running high, take time to explain that the legal process has a clear path and that you intend to act in everyone’s best interest. Getting early alignment can prevent future tension.

Grant of Probate Versus Letters of Administration: Which One Do You Need?

When you are managing a loved one’s estate after their death in Singapore, the first legal task is working out which Court order you must secure before any bank, insurer or land registry will speak to you. There are only two possibilities, which are a grant of probate or letters of administration, and the choice depends on whether there is a valid will.

Grant of Probate

• What it is: An official Court order that confirms the will is genuine and appoints the executor named in that will to manage the estate.
• When it applies: There is an original, properly signed will, and the executor is able and willing to act.
• Who applies: The executor (or all executors acting together if more than one is named).
• Why it matters: Banks, CPF Board, insurers and the Singapore Land Authority all require a sealed Grant of Probate before releasing or transferring assets.
• Timeframe: Straightforward estates with clear paperwork usually receive the Grant in about three to six months.

Letters of Administration

• What it is: A Court order that appoints an administrator to handle the estate when no valid will exists, or when the named executor cannot act.
• When it applies:
  • No will was left (intestacy).
  • The will is invalid, lost, or only a copy can be found.
  • The named executor has died, refuses the role, or lacks capacity.
• Who applies: The nearest next‑of‑kin in the priority set out in the Intestate Succession Act (spouse, children, parents, siblings, and so on). All beneficiaries of full age must give their written consent to the proposed administrator.
• Why it matters: Without this document, the administrator has no authority to collect, sell or distribute the estate’s assets.
• Timeframe: Similar to Probate, though extra affidavits may be needed to prove kinship and obtain consents.

How To Decide Quickly

1. Look for the original will. If you find one and it names you (or someone else) as executor, you must apply for the Grant of Probate.
2. No will or executor? Prepare to file for Letters of Administration instead.
3. Unsure which route fits? Speak with an experienced probate solicitor. The wrong application will be rejected by the Court and delay access to funds.

Conclusion About Managing A Loved One’s Estate After Their Death

Settling an estate does not have to consume your energy or peace of mind. With clear steps, steady guidance and the right legal partner, you can wrap up the formalities and give the family space to heal. Tembusu Law is here to shoulder the legal load for you.

Talk to our best Divorce lawyer and criminal lawyers in Singapore today and let us chart the smoothest route through Probate so you can focus on what truly matters.

Frequently Asked Questions About Managing A Loved One’s Estate After Their Death

How Long Does Probate Usually Take In Singapore?

Simple estates with complete paperwork often finish within three to six months. Contested matters or foreign assets can extend the process.

What Happens If The Executor Refuses To Act?

Any beneficiary may ask the Court to appoint a new personal representative through Letters of Administration with Will Annexed.

Do I Need A Lawyer For Small Estates Under S$50,000?

Not always. You may use the Public Trustee’s Office Small Estate Process if beneficiaries agree and the assets are local.

Can I Be Paid For My Work As An Executor?

Yes. Reasonable expenses are reimbursable, and the Court may approve an executor’s commission, typically up to 5 per cent of the estate.

Is CPF Money Part Of The Estate?

No. Central Provident Fund savings are distributed separately to the nominee(s) or, if none, to eligible next‑of‑kin under CPF rules.