In Singapore, probate and administration is the legal process where the executor (person appointed in a will) applies for a Grant of Probate or administrator (person appointed by the court) applies for a Grant of Letters of Administration. Both grants are legal documents issued by the court for the executor or administrator to have the legal power to manage and distribute the deceased’s estate. Some assets such as Central Provident Fund (“CPF”) monies, insurance with nominations, jointly owned properties (eg. joint tenancy flats, joint bank accounts, etc.) do not need a Grant to be distributed.

One can also consider applying to the Public Trustee to administer the estate if the total value is less than SG$50,000. If the Public Trustee agrees to administer the estate, a Grant is not needed, and thus, don’t have to go through administration.

Read more: All About Probate & Administration (Singapore Edition)