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Once the funeral has taken place, families often turn their attention to the deceased's estate. Where a valid will exists, this usually involves applying for a Grant of Probate.
The term can sound intimidating, but it simply refers to the legal recognition of the person named in the will as the rightful executor of the estate.
This guide is best read alongside our broader checklist after a loved one passes away.
This guide is part of our broader checklist after a loved one passes away -- covering the administrative matters families often face after a funeral.
Overview
What Is a Grant of Probate?
A Grant of Probate is a court order that formally confirms a will is valid and gives the named executor legal authority to administer the deceased's estate according to its terms.
Without this grant, banks, property agents and other institutions may not release or transfer assets belonging to the deceased.
When it applies
When Is a Grant of Probate Needed?
Probate is generally required when the deceased left a valid will and the estate includes assets such as property, bank accounts above a certain value, or investments that cannot be released without formal legal authority.
Smaller estates or accounts with proper nomination arrangements may not require probate. A lawyer can help determine whether it applies to your family's situation.
Who applies
Who Can Apply for Probate?
The executor named in the deceased's will is generally the person who applies for the Grant of Probate. If more than one executor is named, they may apply jointly or an alternate arrangement may be agreed.
If you are unsure who was named as executor, this is usually stated clearly within the will itself.
General process
How the Application Process Generally Works
While the exact steps can vary, the process typically involves preparing the required documents, filing an application with the court, and waiting for the grant to be issued before assets can be administered.
Many families engage a lawyer to help prepare and file the application correctly, particularly where the estate is more complex.
Preparation
Documents Typically Required
- The original will
- The deceased's death certificate
- Identification documents for the executor
- A general list of the estate's assets and liabilities
Our guide on what documents are needed after a death covers the broader set of paperwork families should keep organised.
Not Sure Where to Start?
While our team focuses on funeral arrangements, we are happy to point your family toward the right next steps for estate matters.
Timeline
How Long Does the Process Take?
The time required varies significantly depending on the complexity of the estate and whether the application is contested. Simpler estates with a clear, uncontested will generally proceed more quickly than complex ones.
It is best to speak with a lawyer for a realistic timeline based on your family's specific circumstances.
Related process
Probate vs Letters of Administration
A Grant of Probate applies when the deceased left a valid will. If there is no will, the appropriate family member instead needs to apply for Letters of Administration, which follows a different process.
Practical reference
Probate Preparation Checklist
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is probate always required after a death?
Not always. It generally depends on the type and value of assets involved. A lawyer can advise whether probate applies to your family's situation.
What happens if there is no will?
Where there is no valid will, the appropriate family member may instead need to apply for Letters of Administration.
Who should apply for the grant?
The executor named in the will is generally the person who applies. If in doubt, this is usually stated clearly within the will itself.
Can I apply for probate without a lawyer?
It is possible in some straightforward cases, but many families choose to engage a lawyer to help prepare the application correctly, especially for more complex estates.
What documents should I gather in the meantime?
Start with the original will and death certificate. Read our guide on what documents are needed after a death for a fuller list.
Final guidance
Approach This Process With Patience
Estate matters rarely need to be resolved immediately after a loss. Take the time your family needs, gather the right documents, and seek proper legal advice before proceeding with an application.
Read our broader checklist after a loved one passes away or contact our funeral team for further guidance.
Continue Your Planning
Checklist After a Loved One Passes Away
A broader checklist covering notifications, belongings and administrative matters.
Read article
Letters of Administration in Singapore
What may happen when a person passes away without a valid will.
Read article
What Documents Are Needed After a Death?
A practical list of documents families may need to locate.
Read articleCompassionate Funeral Support When Your Family Needs It
Speak with our funeral team for guidance on the immediate next steps, funeral arrangements and wake planning.