Grant of Probate / Letters of Administration
Following the passing of a loved one, the legal administration of their estate including assets such as real estate, bank accounts, and investments must be carried out in accordance with Singapore law.
The distribution of these assets requires the proper legal authority, obtained through either a Grant of Probate (if a valid Will exists) or Letters of Administration (if there is no Will).
At Stamford Legacy, we offer professional guidance and seamless facilitation of this process, ensuring compliance with legal requirements while expediting estate distribution.
Our expertise helps executors and administrators navigate probate complexities efficiently, minimizing delays and ensuring that rightful beneficiaries receive their inheritance in a timely manner.
What is a Grant of Probate?
A Grant of Probate is a legal document issued by the Family Justice Courts of Singapore that authorizes the executor named in a deceased person’s Will to administer their estate. This includes:
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Identifying and collecting assets
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Settling outstanding debts and liabilities
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Distributing assets according to the Will
Who Needs to Apply for a Grant of Probate?
If the deceased left behind a valid Will, the appointed executor(s) must apply for a Grant of Probate to execute the estate administration process. Without this legal document, banks, financial institutions, and government agencies will not release the deceased’s assets.
What is Letters of Administration (LOA)?
If a person passes away without a Will (intestate), their estate must be distributed in accordance with the Intestate Succession Act (ISA). In such cases, an eligible next-of-kin must apply for Letters of Administration to be appointed as the administrator of the estate.
Who Can Apply for Letters of Administration?
The priority order of applicants under the Intestate Succession Act is as follows:
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Spouse
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Children
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Parents
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Siblings
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Nephews / Nieces
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Grandparents
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Uncles / Aunts
If multiple next-of-kin are entitled, they must decide on one or more administrators to act on behalf of the estate.
Process flow & Timeline
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What is a Will?A Will is a legally binding document that sets out how your assets will be distributed upon your passing. It allows you to appoint executors, guardians for your minor children, and specify beneficiaries for your estate.
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Why should I write a Will?Writing a Will ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, prevents family disputes, and expedites the probate process. Without a Will, your estate will be distributed according to Singapore’s Intestate Succession Act, which may not align with your intentions.
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Who can make a Will in Singapore?Any person who is at least 21 years old and of sound mind can make a Will. Exceptions may apply for those serving in the military or maritime industry.
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What happens if I pass away without a Will?If you die intestate (without a Will), your assets will be distributed according to the Intestate Succession Act. This may not reflect your preferences and can lead to delays and disputes among family members.
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Can I write my own Will?Yes, you can write your own Will, but it must comply with legal requirements to be valid. A poorly drafted Will may lead to disputes or be declared invalid, which is why seeking professional assistance is recommended.
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What are the legal requirements for a Will to be valid in Singapore?For a Will to be legally valid in Singapore, it must: Be in writing Be signed by the testator (person making the Will) Be witnessed by two or more witnesses (who are not beneficiaries or spouses of beneficiaries) Be made voluntarily and without coercion
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Can I update or change my Will?Yes, you can revise your Will at any time by either: Creating a new Will that revokes the previous one Adding a Codicil (a legal amendment to an existing Will)
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Who should I appoint as my executor?An executor is responsible for carrying out the instructions in your Will. You should appoint a trusted individual (e.g., a family member, friend, or professional executor) who is responsible and capable of handling legal and financial matters.
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What assets can I include in my Will?You can include: Bank accounts Real estate (excluding HDB flats under joint tenancy) Investments (stocks, bonds, insurance policies) Personal belongings (jewelry, vehicles, etc.)
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Can my CPF savings be included in my Will?No, CPF savings cannot be distributed via a Will. Instead, you must make a CPF nomination through the CPF Board to designate beneficiaries.
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Where should I keep my Will?Your Will should be stored in a safe and accessible location, such as: Our Will Custody Service - We provide safekeeping services for Wills With your executor In a safe deposit box
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How does a Will differ from a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)?A Will takes effect only after death and governs the distribution of assets. An LPA applies while you are alive but incapacitated, allowing appointed donees to make decisions on your behalf.
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How can Stamford Legacy assist me in Will planning?At Stamford Legacy, we provide comprehensive estate planning services, ensuring your Will is legally sound, accurately reflects your wishes, and is properly executed for peace of mind. Contact us today for a consultation!
Request a Consultation
Planning for the future starts with the right guidance. At Stamford Legacy, we offer professional and personalized consultations to help you navigate the complexities of will planning, estate management, and legal matters with confidence.
During your consultation, our experts will:
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Understand Your Needs – We take the time to assess your unique circumstances and concerns.
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Provide Tailored Advice – Get clear, customized solutions for will writing, LPAs, probate, trusts, and more.
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Answer Your Questions – Gain clarity on legal processes, ensuring you make informed decisions.
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Offer a Hassle-Free Experience – We simplify estate planning, making it smooth and stress-free.
Start Planning with Confidence
Whether you’re looking to draft a will, protect your assets, or secure your family’s future, our team is ready to assist you. Book a consultation today and take the first step towards peace of mind.
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