All you need to know about writing a will in Singapore

While not mandatory, engaging a reputable wills lawyer is recommended because of the intricacies involved. Professional advice from a trained consultant will help you devise the necessary content to include in a will, preventing unnecessary losses, conflicts or confusion in the long run.

What to Include in a Will

• A list of all of your assets. A jointly-owned bank account or real estate property cannot be devised by a will.
• A list of all your liabilities. You must state how you want your debts to be paid off before your assets are distributed to the beneficiaries.
• The beneficiaries (who to give the assets to) and guardians (for if the beneficiaries are not of age), and how much each one is to receive. You may also want to include reserve (i.e. backup) beneficiaries in the event of simultaneous death.
• The executors (to carry out your will). A beneficiary may also be the executor.
• The advisor or specialist involved. E.g. lawyers and accountants.
• A revocation clause to nullify any wills that has been prepared previously.
• A residuary clause that distributes any remainder of your estate according to your wishes. For

example, if a beneficiary dies before you, the asset bequeathed to him becomes the remainder.

In Singapore, it generally costs between $200 to $400 to engage a lawyer to draft a simple will.