- Learn how 6 legacy tools can save your family up to S$10,000 in legal delays and medical costs
- Find out why over 720,000 Singaporeans have visited MyLegacy@LifeSG—and what they did next
- Discover how to complete CPF nomination, LPA, AMD, and a simple will—starting from just S$25
“I thought I had everything sorted, but after my remarriage, I found out my earlier CPF nomination was automatically revoked. It was a wake-up call.” — Mr. Ong, 72
Imagine your loved ones struggling, uncertain of your wishes, facing legal delays, or unable to access your savings when they need it most. Haven’t you spent a lifetime building memories, celebrating achievements, and saving for brighter tomorrows? What happens to all that love when you’re gone?
Legacy planning in Singapore doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Whether you’re looking to nominate your CPF savings, draft a will, apply for a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), or plan ahead with an Advance Medical Directive (AMD), this guide breaks down all the essential steps, costs, and tools you need. As Singapore’s population ages—with nearly 1 in 5 residents aged 65 or older[1]—more families are realising how crucial it is to plan ahead. In fact, over 720,000 people have already visited the government-backed MyLegacy@LifeSG portal[2], showing growing public awareness.
The Real Cost of Not Planning
Without Planning | With Planning | Typical Costs |
Court appoints Deputy (if incapacitated) | You appoint a trusted Donee via LPA | LPA: Free for citizens (waived till 31 Mar 2026); certification ~$25–$80 |
No Will: Intestate Succession Act excludes some | You decide who inherits and who cares for minors | Will: Free (templates) or $200–500 with a lawyer |
No CPF nomination: Public Trustee distributes with fees deducted after months | Your nominees receive CPF funds quickly, in full | CPF nomination: Completely free via CPF |
No AMD: Doctors must use life support, possibly against your values | AMD legally prevents unwanted interventions | AMD: Free form from MOH, doctor witness fee ~$20–60 |
No funeral plan: Family scrambles under stress, cost overruns | Your funeral wishes and budget are clear | Funeral packages: $3,000–10,000+ |
Why Legacy Planning Matters Now
We are all temporary occupants on this planet, but we do leave behind many things which will be carried over for many days to come. Legacy planning makes sure that your legacy is carried on by the right methods and by the right people. It comes into play when:
- You pass away
- Lose mental capacity due to illness or injury
Good to Know Facts:
- With just S$95–150, you can cover most basic planning tools [3][6][7][8][12]
- More than 720,000 visitors have used MyLegacy@LifeSG since its launch [2]
- Up to S$12,000+ may be spent on funeral arrangements, depending on preferences. [5]
The result is a clear “map” for your family: assets go to the right people, and your medical and personal wishes are respected.
The 6 Essential Legacy Tools
There are multiple tools which can come in handy during your legacy planning; below, we discuss 6 major tools:
Tool | Purpose |
Will | Decide how your assets (excluding CPF) are distributed |
CPF Nomination | Ensure CPF savings go to the right people |
Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) | Appoint someone to manage your affairs if mentally incapacitated |
Advance Care Planning (ACP) | Express your healthcare preferences ahead of time |
Advance Medical Directive (AMD) | Legally refuse artificial life support if terminally ill |
Funeral Planning | Ease stress on family, align the funeral with your values |
Your Will: A Letter of Love
Consider your will as the final letter filled with love, care, and emotions that only your loved ones can decipher. You’re not only deciding who gets what; you’re saying, “I’ve thought of you. I’ve made this easier for you.”
Why a Will Matters
Without a Will:
- The Intestate Succession Act applies (fixed formulas exclude unmarried partners, stepchildren, friends)
- Family faces delays, disputes, or higher legal costs, potentially up to S$10,000+ in legal fees
- Court decides asset distribution, often against personal wishes
With a Will:
- You decide who gets what, and can appoint guardians for minor children
- Name a trusted friend or relative as your pet’s guardian.
- Allocate funds (e.g., S$5,000–S$10,000) for their care, including food, vet visits, and grooming.
- Probate is faster and simpler (4–6 weeks vs 3–8 months)
- You can leave specific gifts to friends, charities, or causes
Cost Breakdown: Writing a Will in Singapore
Option | Estimated Cost | Details |
MyLegacy@LifeSG (Gov) | Free | Basic will templates, no legal advice |
Online Will Services | S$89 – S$381 | Examples: SingaporeLegalAdvice WillMaker, SimplyWills |
Lawyers (Simple Will) | S$300 – S$500 | One consultation, executor naming |
Lawyers (Complex Will) | S$500 – S$1,200+ | Trusts, business assets, overseas property |
How to Make a Valid Will
Who can do it: Anyone aged 21+ and of sound mind
What it must include:
- Your full name and NRIC
- List of assets (property, bank accounts, investments)
- Names of beneficiaries and executor
- Appointment of guardians (for minors, if applicable)
- Your signature and 2 witnesses (aged 21+, not beneficiaries)
Image credit: Health Insured SG
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake | Why It Matters |
No witnesses or invalid ones | Will becomes void |
Including CPF in Will | CPF is handled separately via nomination |
Outdated information | Must update after marriage, divorce |
Vague clauses | Leads to family disputes |
Tip: ServiceSG staff can assist you with MyLegacy and will templates at no cost. Bring your SingPass and asset list.
CPF Nomination: Protect Your Lifelong Savings
Your CPF savings are NOT covered by your will! CPF savings represent a lifetime of effort—late nights, sacrificed holidays, steady work. With a CPF nomination, you decide exactly who receives this part of your legacy.[4]
Why CPF Nomination is Critical
Without nomination:
- CPF savings distributed by Public Trustee according to Intestate Succession Act
- Processing takes months, with fees deducted
- No control over who finally receives the funds
With nomination:
- You choose nominees and their shares
- Funds transferred quickly, in full, no trustee fees
- Completely free and easy to update anytime[4]
CPF Nomination Options & Costs
Method | Cost | Details |
Online via SingPass | Free | Requires 2 witnesses via SingPass or video conferencing. |
In-person at CPF Centres | Free | CPF staff act as official witnesses |
ServiceSG Centres | Free | Assistance with forms and witnessing |
Source: [4]
What CPF Nomination Covers
- CPF Ordinary, Special, Medisave & Retirement Accounts
- Unused CPF LIFE premiums
- Discounted SingTel shares (if applicable)
Image credit: Health Insured SG
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake | Impact |
Assuming CPF included in Will | Public Trustee handles without nomination |
Not updating after marriage | Previous nominations are revoked |
Missing witnesses | Nomination rejected |
Overseas nominees not properly assigned | Delays and rejection possible |
Take Action: Make your CPF nomination today via the CPF website
“Account Services” > “Providing for your loved ones” > “Making a CPF nomination”.[4]
Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA): Choose Your Trusted Decision-Maker
If you lose mental capacity due to illness or accident, an LPA appoints your chosen Donee to act for you. Without it, the family must apply for a costly deputyship through the courts ($3,000–10,000+).[3]
Why You Need an LPA
Without an LPA:
- Court appoints Deputy (time-consuming and expensive)
- No legal access to manage finances or healthcare decisions
With an LPA:
- You appoint trusted Donee(s) to handle personal welfare and/or property & affairs
- Avoids delays in emergencies
- Enables your wishes to be respected even if you can’t communicate.[9]
Cost Breakdown for LPA in Singapore
Item | Estimated Cost | Details |
Application Fee (Form 1) | Free (till 31 Mar 2026) | For most Singaporeans |
Certification by Doctor/Lawyer | S$25–S$80 | Needed for legal validity |
Form 2 (customised powers) | S$200 | For complex power arrangements (rare) |
Tip: Subsidized certification clinics: Choa Chu Kang Polyclinic, SATA CommHealth, and selected GPs.
Powers of a Donee
- Personal Welfare: Healthcare decisions, living arrangements
- Property & Affairs: Bank accounts, property sales, investments
You can appoint:
- One donee (sole)
- Two or more (jointly or jointly/severally)
- Replacement donees in case primary donees cannot act
How to Make an LPA
- Select trusted Donee(s) aged 21+.
- Complete the appropriate Form (typically Form 1).
- Book an appointment with an Office of Public Guardian (OPG)-accredited certificate issuer (doctor or lawyer).
- Submit your application online at the OPG e-Service Portal.
Image Credit: Ministry of Social and Family Development
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake | Consequence |
Waiting until incapacitated | LPA cannot be made after loss of capacity |
Selecting underage donee | Donee must be legally eligible (21+) |
Broad or unclear powers | Causes disputes and ambiguity |
Not certifying correctly | LPA is invalid without certification |
Advance Care Planning (ACP): Voice Your Medical Wishes Early
ACP is a voluntary process to discuss and document your healthcare preferences for situations when you cannot communicate. [11]
Why ACP Matters
Without ACP:
- Doctors may provide treatments inconsistent with your values
- Family stressed and guilt-ridden making decisions
- Potential for unwanted life-prolonging treatments
With ACP:
- Medical care aligns with your wishes
- Loved ones are reassured and confident
- Doctors avoid unnecessary aggressive treatments[11]
ACP Pathways & Costs
Type | Cost | Suitable For |
myACP digital tool | Free | Adults 21+ with no serious illness |
Facilitated ACP | Free/subsidised | Advanced illness or those wanting help |
What ACP Covers
- Medical treatments you want or refuse (e.g., CPR, feeding tubes)
- Who speaks for you if unable
- Preferred place of care (hospital, home, hospice)
How to Get Started
- Visit myACP (sg)
- Discuss with family and doctor
- Save your ACP in the National Electronic Health Record (NEHR) or MyLegacy Vault [11]
Image Credit: Agency for Integrated Care Pte Ltd.
Common Misunderstandings
Misconception | Reality |
ACP only for terminal illness | ACP is for all adults 21+ |
ACP = AMD | AMD is only a legal refusal for specific treatments |
ACP is permanent | Can be updated or revoked anytime |
Advance Medical Directive (AMD): Control Your End-of-Life Care
An AMD is a legal document refusing extraordinary life-prolonging treatments if terminally ill and unconscious.[12]
Why AMD Matters
Without AMD:
- Doctors are legally obliged to use life-sustaining measures
- Families face emotional, financial burdens
With AMD:
- Protects dignity and autonomy
- Avoids treatments contrary to your values
- Relieves loved ones’ decision burden[12]
Legal Requirements
- At least 21 years old, mentally competent
- Sign in front of 2 witnesses: one registered doctor, one adult (not beneficiary)
- Submit a signed form to the Ministry of Health[12]
Cost of Filing AMD
Item | Estimated Cost[12] |
Form and processing | Free (government service) |
Doctor witness fee | S$20 – 60 |
How to File an AMD
- Obtain Form AMD from Ministry of Health (MOH).
- Arrange witnesses, including accredited doctor.
- Sign and witness form.
- Mail to Registrar of AMD at MOH.
Image Credit: Ministry of Health Singapore
Common Myths
Misconception | Reality |
AMD = DNR | AMD only applies when terminally ill and unconscious |
Filing AMD means wanting to die | AMD refuses unwanted treatments, not cause death |
Family can override AMD | AMD is legally binding once confirmed by doctors |
Funeral Planning: Honour Your Wishes, Ease the Burden
Planning your funeral avoids family confusion, financial surprises, and stressful decisions during grief.
Why Funeral Planning Matters
Without a Plan:
- Overspending and arguments are common
- Traditions and religious rites omitted
- Last-minute logistics chaotic
With Plan:
- Costs anticipated and controlled
- Cultural/religious traditions respected
- Wishes honored with dignity[13]
Cost Breakdown of Funeral Services
Image Credit: Seedly/Ming Feng
Planning Details to Consider
- Burial or cremation preference
- Choice of casket and funeral director
- Religious customs (Taoist, Buddhist, Christian, Muslim)
- Venue for wake or prayer service (HDB permits for void decks required)
Note: Public cremation at Mandai costs ~S$100; a government burial plot costs ~S$315.[5]
Image Credit: Seedly/Ming Feng
Common Oversights
Mistake | Impact |
No documented budget or plan | Family may overspend in grief |
Not recording funeral wishes | Wishes (rituals, venue) may be overlooked |
Assuming Will covers this | Typically funeral occurs before Will is read |
Cultural & Religious Considerations
Legacy planning is not only legal—it’s deeply personal. Singapore’s cultural and religious diversity requires nuanced planning.
Faith-Aligned Resources in Singapore
Faith Group | Resource | Offerings |
Muslim | Syariah-compliant funerals and inheritance advice[14] | |
Christian/Catholic | Catholic Foundation, Church Wills Helpdesk | Funeral arrangements, Will guidance[15] |
Buddhist/Taoist | Representative temples and associations | Rituals, chanting, and memorial services[16] |
Hindu | Hindu Endowments Board | Rituals and cremation support[16] |
Free Thinkers/Secular | Humanist Society Singapore | Non-religious legacy support[17] |
What to Document
- Type and length of wake
- Location (void deck, temple, church)
- Who leads prayers/rituals
- Burial or cremation preference
- Specific items to avoid (alcohol, displays, etc.)
Tip: Include religious and cultural instructions in your Will or MyLegacy Vault.
Digital vs Traditional Pathways
Singapore offers legacy tools in digital and traditional formats, helping all users regardless of tech familiarity.
Digital Path (Tech-Comfortable Users)
Tool | Access Method | Description |
Website with SingPass login | Draft and store Wills, store documents | |
Online portal | Advance Care Planning (self-guided) | |
SingPass login | LPA application and management | |
Online via SingPass | Nominate CPF beneficiaries |
Most services take 15–30 minutes and work well on mobile.
Traditional Path (Paper/In-Person)
Option | Location | What You Can Do |
ServiceSG Centres | 5 centres islandwide | Help with CPF, LPA, Will templates |
CPF Service Centres | Appointment needed | Staff witness CPF nomination |
Hospitals & Polyclinics | ACP, AMD facilitation | Discuss healthcare plans with professionals |
Lawyers, Will Writers | Walk-ins or by appointment | Written legal documents, complex planning |
You can mix digital and traditional—for example, write Will online, do LPA certification at the clinic.
Your 3-Month Implementation Timeline
Arrange your planning without overwhelm by breaking it into clear monthly steps:
Month 1: Get Your Information in Order
- List your assets: property, CPF, bank accounts, insurance, investments
- Identify your trusted executor, CPF nominees, LPA Donees
- Check CPF nomination status at CPF portal
- Start using MyLegacy@LifeSG or visit a ServiceSG Centre
If unsure about nominees, speak with family or legal adviser.
Month 2: Draft & File Key Documents
- Write your Will (use online templates or consult lawyer)
- Apply for LPA while the application fee remains waived
- Start or update your ACP (online or with a doctor)
- Download the AMD form and schedule a doctor appointment if desired
Most can be done from home with SingPass, or get help at community centers.
Month 3: Finalize & Communicate
- Securely store your documents: MyLegacy Vault, fireproof folder, or legal office
- Inform your executor, donees, and family members of their roles
- Document funeral preferences clearly
- Schedule yearly reviews or after major life changes
Your Comprehensive Legacy Planning Checklist
Gather Important Details:
- ☐ List assets, bank statements, investment portfolios
- ☐ Beneficiary details, including NRICs and contact info
- ☐ Check and update CPF nomination status
Legal Documents:
- ☐ Write or update Will (include guardianship, executors)
- ☐ Make or update CPF Nomination
- ☐ Apply for LPA Form 1, certify with a doctor/lawyer.
- ☐ Register AMD if appropriate
- ☐ Review insurance policy nominations
Healthcare Planning:
- ☐ Complete ACP using myACP tool or facilitated session
- ☐ Consider hospice, palliative care classes if needed
Funeral Arrangements:
- ☐ Choose burial or cremation, and venue
- ☐ Set and communicate budget
- ☐ Note religious or cultural rites and preferences
- ☐ Plan wake location with proper permits
Communication:
- ☐ Schedule family meetings and discussions to share your wishes
- ☐ Answer questions and provide clarity
- ☐ Document decisions and store securely
Review and Follow-up:
- ☐ Schedule annual reviews and after major life events
- ☐ Stay updated with government resources and health policies
Printable Quick Reference Table
Task | Status |
List assets | ☐ |
Check CPF nomination | ☐ |
Identify executor & Donees | ☐ |
Write Will | ☐ |
File LPA | ☐ |
Complete ACP | ☐ |
Consider AMD | ☐ |
Plan funeral preferences | ☐ |
Inform trusted persons | ☐ |
Store documents securely | ☐ |
Family Conversations: Starting Difficult But Important Discussions
Talking about death or incapacity can be tough—but vital. Here are tips to ease the discussions:
Expert Tips
- Involve loved ones early: Share values and hopes
- Listen and let them lead: Don’t rush or force
- Share happy memories: Ease tension with positive moments
- Be honest and clear: Use gentle language, reassure planning helps
- Use tools: My Voice conversation cards (Singapore Hospice Council), AIC ACP counselors
Cultural Sensitivity Tips
- Respect generational perspectives on death
- Honor religious family traditions
- Engage elders or religious leaders if appropriate
- Use culturally relevant language and concepts
- Acknowledge family hierarchies in decision-making
Conversation Starters
- “I want to make things easier for us all in the future…”
- “After hearing what happened to our friend, I think we should talk…”
- “I want our family’s future to be protected with clear plans.”
- “What would you want me to know if you couldn’t tell me yourself?”
Resource Directory & Support
You don’t have to navigate this alone. Singapore offers numerous trusted resources for assistance:
Government Support Centers
Center | Services Offered | Location/Contact |
CPF, LPA, Wills, ACP help | 5 locations including Our Tampines Hub, Toa Payoh Hub | |
CPF nominations & digital help | 1800-227-1188 | |
LPA info & applications | 1800-111-2222 | |
NEA & Town Councils | Cremation, burial, permit info | – |
Digital Literacy & Community Support
Program | Description |
One-on-one digital training at community centers | |
SG Digital Community Hubs | SingPass, MyLegacy, myACP support |
Silver Generation Office | Home visits, eldercare coordination |
Essential Online Resources
- MyLegacy@LifeSG — One-stop legacy planning portal
- CPF Board — Manage CPF accounts and nominations
- Office of Public Guardian — LPA application and info
- Ministry of Health — Advance Medical Directive forms
- Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) — ACP info and 24/7 hotline: 1800-650-6060
Family & Community Support Options
- Younger family members can assist with digital tools
- Religious and community leaders provide values-based guidance
- Community centers and SACs host free legal clinics and legacy workshops
Quick Contact Reference
Service | Contact Information |
MyLegacy@LifeSG | |
CPF Board | 1800-227-1188 |
OPG Hotline | 1800-111-2222 |
AIC Eldercare | 1800-650-6060 |
SG Digital Office |
Conclusion: Start Today—Your Legacy, Your Peace of Mind
Planning your legacy isn’t about death; it’s about protecting the life and love you’ve built. Each step taken today gifts your family clarity, peace, and dignity.
You deserve the peace of mind that comes from knowing everything important is in place.
Why It’s Worth Every Effort
- CPF nomination costs nothing but avoids costly court processes later
- A Will can cost less than a meal out but avoids family conflict
- LPA safeguards your wishes even if you can’t speak
- ACP ensures care matches your values during difficult times
Your Next Steps
- Quick Start: Make your CPF nomination today (gov.sg) (about 15 minutes)
- Organized Approach: Use the 3-month timeline for manageable steps
- Family First: Begin discussing values and wishes with loved ones
- Get Help: Visit ServiceSG Centers or call hotlines for guided support
Legacy planning is not only smart—it’s loving.
References
- Department of Statistics Singapore. Population Trends 2024.
- MyLegacy@LifeSG, Government of Singapore Usage Report 2024.
- Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), “Deputyship and LPA Fees,” gov.sg (2024).
- Central Provident Fund (CPF) Board. “CPF Nomination Guide.” gov.sg (2024).
- TheSmartLocal, “Costs of Funerals in Singapore,” 2024.
- MyLegacy@LifeSG, “Will Preparation Guide,” 2024.
- com, “How Much Does it Cost to Make a Will in Singapore?” 2024.
- MoneyOwl, “Will Writing in Singapore: What You Need to Know,” 2024.
- Office of Public Guardian Singapore, OPG Portal (2024).
- List of OPG-certified doctors/lawyers and certification fees, gov.sg (2024).
- Agency for Integrated Care (AIC), “Advance Care Planning,” sg (2024).
- Ministry of Health (MOH), “Advance Medical Directive,” gov.sg (2024).
- National Environment Agency (NEA), “Burial, Cremation & Funeral Services,” gov.sg (2024).
- Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS), PEACE Plan, gov.sg (2024).
- Catholic Foundation Singapore, “Will & Funeral Guidance,” sg (2024).
- Hindu Endowments Board, gov.sg (2024).
- Humanist Society Singapore, org.sg (2024).
- Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), “Seniors Go Digital Program,” gov.sg (2024).
