Debated in Parliament on 5 Feb 2024.
Ms See Jinli Jean asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) what assistance is available to Singaporeans without dependants or with only distant dependants for (i) estate planning (ii) pre-funeral planning and (iii) funeral and afterlife arrangements; and (b) whether the Ministry will consider extending financial assistance to lower-income families to alleviate the financial impact of the above on such families.
Any Singaporean can use My Legacy@LifeSG, to get all the necessary information for end-of-life planning. The portal covers options such as the Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), Advance Care Planning (ACP), CPF nomination, will-making, and documentation of funeral wishes. There is also information on handling post-death matters, such as how one’s estate will be distributed under the Intestate Succession Act or Muslim inheritance laws. Additionally, Singaporeans can visit one of the seven ServiceSG Centres located islandwide for guided assistance through pre-planning services such as making an LPA.
Bereaved low-income families that need financial support for funeral expenses may approach our Social Service Offices (SSOs), which will direct them to relevant community support. For example, funeral companies and community partners offer pro bono funeral services to individuals and families that are unable to afford funerals. There are also charities that can support funeral services of those with no dependants or who are from low-income households. Bereaved family members of ComCare Long-Term Assistance beneficiaries may also receive support with funeral expenses from SSOs.
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