Behind Every Loss, There Is A Mountain Of Paperwork That No One Sees
Without a will, your assets will be distributed according to Singapore's Intestate Succession Act, which follows a fixed formula. This might not reflect your actual wishes—for example, unmarried partners, stepchildren, or close friends won’t get anything unless explicitly included.
When there's a valid will, the process to obtain a Grant of Probate (which allows the executor to manage the estate) is more straightforward. Without one, your family needs to apply for Letters of Administration, which takes longer and may cause stress during an already emotional time.
You get to appoint someone you trust to handle your estate. Otherwise, the court will appoint someone (which may or may not be your ideal choice).
Doing a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) in Singapore is just as important as writing a will, but for a different reason: it protects your interests while you’re still alive but mentally incapacitated.
A Grant of Probate is a court order officially recognizing and giving powers to the executor named in a Will to carry out the duties stated in the Will.
Financial institutions and many other authorities require the Grant of Probate before allowing any closure of accounts or transfer of ownership of assets.
In cases where prices of the assets involved fluctuate, for example, stocks and shares, real properties, motor vehicles etc.., it would be advantageous to obtain the Grant early so that the executor can have the flexibility to decide when to liquidate the assets involved, if necessary, to take advantage of the price fluctuations.
The main documents required to apply for the Grant of Probate in Singapore are:
Original copy of the Will;
Original Death Certificate of the deceased;
”Schedule of Assets” providing details of assets owned by the deceased.
Affinity Funeral Service (AFS) is a distinguished fourth-generation, family-owned establishment dedicated to providing dignified and respectful farewells.
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Affinity Funeral Service (AFS) is a distinguished fourth-generation, family-owned establishment dedicated to providing dignified and respectful farewells.