Imagine leaving your family clouded in uncertainty. A survey in 2024 revealed that while 81% Singaporeans have moderate to high openness to end-of-life planning, less than 13% have spoken or written down their wishes, and more than half (53%) have done neither, implying a lack of concrete will planning actions. A deceased without a will in Singapore is considered to have died “intestate”, which means Singapore’s Intestate Succession Act will govern the distribution of their assets.
Beyond asset distribution, a will is used to specify final farewell and funeral wishes, which entail preferences for burial or cremation, funeral arrangements, and the appointment of a funeral executor, such as Heartfelt Life Solutions. Whatever your belief, everyone deserves to have their final wishes respected.
Without a will, your loved ones may face uncertainty and additional stress during an already difficult time. This article explores will planning as a tool for the distribution of wealth and the fulfilment of final wishes.
The Costly Myth of “I Don’t Need a Will”
Contrary to common misconceptions, will planning is neither just for the elderly nor the wealthy. It is a preparation to prevent complications and family disputes in the face of unforeseen events. Accidents happen all the time, regardless of age. Delaying will planning often results in confusion, financial hardship, and conflict among surviving family members.
Will planning extends far beyond wealth distribution. A will plays a critical role in having your final preferences respected. It empowers you to make decisions in advance that reflect your values and ease the burden of end-of-life care on your loved ones. Will planning ensures that your wishes are honoured.
Without a valid will, your final farewell will be complicated for your family. Making the right decisions in a time of grief without instruction is already hard, especially if your family wants to personalise your goodbye the best they can. Planning while you are healthy and safe ensures your legacy is allocated according to your intentions. 
Will Planning
How to Start: Steps to Take
Will planning is a tool of empowerment, offering peace of mind for a smooth financial distribution and end-of-life handling. In Singapore, legal requirements include being at least 21 years old, of sound mind, and having the will witnessed by two non-beneficiaries. Below is an in-depth look at the process of writing a legitimate will in Singapore.
The Wills Act outlines the guidelines for drafting a valid will in Singapore. This legal framework ensures that the intentions of the testator (the person writing the will) are honoured and handled appropriately. A properly executed will can avoid legal complications for your heirs and streamline the distribution of your estate and end-of-life care.
Requirements for a Valid Will
To be considered valid in Singapore, a will must meet the following conditions:
| Must Be in Writing | A will must be a written document. This can be in the form of a handwritten, typed, or printed will. |
| Age and Mental Capacity | The testator must be at least 21 years old and must possess the mental capacity to understand the nature and consequences of making a will. The testator must be of sound mind when drafting the will. |
| Signature of the Testator | The will must be signed by the testator at the bottom of the document. The signature is a confirmation that the document represents their final wishes. |
| Witnesses | The will must be signed in the presence of two witnesses who are not beneficiaries of the will. This ensures impartiality and prevents conflicts of interest. The witnesses must also sign the will to confirm that they observed the testator’s signature. |
What Should Be Included in A Will?
When it comes to ensuring that your final wishes and funeral requirements are honoured, a will is an essential tool. When drafting a will, specific details should be included to ensure its effectiveness:
| Personal Particulars and Marital Status | The will should begin by identifying the testator, including full name, identification number, and marital status. This confirms your identity and sets the stage to ensure your wishes are respected. |
| Appointment of Executors | Executors are the individuals responsible for administering your estate and ensuring that your final wishes are executed. Appointing trusted, reliable individuals is crucial as they will manage your wishes regarding specific funeral rites, donations, or memorials you’ve requested. |
| Designation of Guardians for Minor Children | If you have minor children, your will should specify a guardian to ensure their well-being in the event of your death. This prevents confusion or legal complications when your loved ones need to focus on grieving. |
| Beneficiaries and Distribution of Assets | The will should clearly define who your beneficiaries are, whether they are family, friends, or organisations, and outline how assets should be distributed. This ensures that your assets are managed according to your wishes. |
| Detailed List of Assets and Liabilities | A comprehensive list of assets and liabilities should be included in the will. This can encompass properties, bank accounts, investments, personal belongings, and debts that need to be settled. A clear outline of all assets and liabilities ensures the executor knows precisely what needs to be managed. |
| Residuary Clause | A residuary clause ensures that any remaining assets not explicitly mentioned in your will are appropriately distributed. This ensures that nothing is overlooked and that any residual matters, including specific funeral wishes or contributions, are honoured. |
| Revocation of Previous Wills | The will must state that any previous wills or codicils (amendments) are revoked. Only the most recent will is valid and recognised by law. |
Advance Will Planning: “I’m Too Young” or “It’s Too Complicated”
When it comes to will planning, many people assume it’s something they don’t need to think about until later in life. However, waiting to plan can create unnecessary stress and uncertainty for loved ones in unexpected circumstances. It’s natural to feel uncertain or overwhelmed, but advanced will planning ensures that your loved ones are taken care of, regardless of age or financial situation.
“I’m only in my 30s, is a will really necessary?” Unfortunately, life is unpredictable. Early planning ensures your loved ones are protected regardless of age or circumstance.
“It feels overwhelming.” The will-writing process can be simplified with step-by-step guides and professional services that cater specifically to Singapore’s diverse religious and cultural backgrounds.
Secure Your Wishes, Honour Your Beliefs
Secure your legacy today. Guarantee peace of mind for your family and have your chosen rites specified in a will, be it Buddhist, Christian, or secular. Will planning protects your loved ones from potential conflicts during times of grief.
Will planning in Singapore is a proactive step to safeguard your family. Get started today by consulting a trusted lawyer, discussing your intentions with family and ensuring your wishes are respected.
Take action today to bring clarity tomorrow.
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