Wills & Lasting Power of Attorney in Singapore
A valid Will and a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) are the two most important legal documents you will ever sign. I help individuals and families across Singapore put these essential documents in place – clearly, correctly, and affordably.
Why Every Singaporean Adult Needs a Will
If you die without a Will in Singapore, you are said to have died intestate. Your estate will be distributed according to the Intestate Succession Act – a fixed statutory formula based on family relationships – regardless of your actual wishes.
- Your spouse does not automatically inherit everything
- An unmarried partner receives nothing under the law
- Stepchildren and close friends are excluded
- Your family may face court proceedings, delays, and unnecessary costs
What Your Will Can Do
- Name your beneficiaries – who receives what, and in what proportion
- Appoint an executor – the trusted person who carries out your instructions
- Appoint a guardian for your minor children
- Make specific gifts of property, savings, or personal belongings to named individuals
- Set up a testamentary trust to protect assets for young children or vulnerable dependants
- Reduce family conflict by leaving clear, legally binding instructions
What Is a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)?
An LPA is a legal document that allows you – while you still have mental capacity – to appoint a trusted person (a donee) to make decisions on your behalf if you ever lose mental capacity due to illness, injury, dementia, or age.
The Two Types of LPA Powers
- Personal welfare – decisions about your healthcare, medical treatment, living arrangements, and daily routines
- Property and affairs – managing your bank accounts, paying bills, handling your property and investments
Why do I need an LPA if I already have a Will? A Will only takes effect after you pass away. An LPA operates while you are still alive but unable to make decisions for yourself. Without an LPA, your family must apply to court for a Deputyship Order – a time-consuming and expensive process.
The Process – From Consultation to Signing
- Consultation – We discuss your family situation, assets, and wishes
- Drafting – I prepare your Will and/or LPA for your review
- Execution – You sign in my presence; I witness the documents
- LPA Registration – I assist with filing your LPA with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG)
- Safe storage advice – Guidance on storing your Will securely
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Will cover my CPF savings?
No. CPF savings do not form part of your estate and cannot be distributed through a Will. Your CPF is distributed according to your CPF nomination. If you have not made a CPF nomination, the Public Trustee will distribute those funds under the Intestate Succession Act.
Does marriage or divorce affect my existing Will?
Yes, significantly. In Singapore, marriage revokes an existing Will unless the Will was made in contemplation of that specific marriage. Divorce does not automatically revoke a Will, but it does affect gifts made to a former spouse.
Can I update my Will after it has been made?
Yes. You can update or replace your Will at any time while you have mental capacity. A new Will or a Codicil (an amendment document) can be prepared after major life events.
Who can certify an LPA in Singapore?
An LPA must be certified by a Certificate Issuer – an Advocate & Solicitor, a registered medical practitioner, or a psychiatrist. As an Advocate & Solicitor, I am qualified to certify LPA applications.
How much does it cost to make a Will in Singapore?
Legal fees for a Will vary depending on complexity. Contact me for a transparent fee quote before we begin.
What happens if I lose mental capacity without an LPA?
Your family will need to apply to the Family Justice Courts for a Deputyship Order under the Mental Capacity Act. This process takes several months and involves court fees, legal costs, and ongoing reporting obligations to the Office of the Public Guardian.
Ready to put your affairs in order?
Contact Johnathan Lee, Advocate & Solicitor, to arrange a consultation on your Will or LPA. Get in touch today.