Estate Planning for New Parents in Singapore

Becoming a parent reshapes how you think about money, responsibility, and long-term security. In Singapore, this shift comes early, as families often build financial commitments soon after having children. In 2025, the Singapore Academy of Law reported that more than 153,000 Wills had been registered, yet younger parents remain one of the least represented groups.

That said, planning ahead gives you clarity and direction. This article guides you through how thoughtful estate planning can protect your child and assets with the right Will-writing service in Singapore.

Why Estate Planning Matters Once You Have a Child

Parenthood changes how your estate is managed if something happens to you. Without a Will, Singapore’s intestate succession laws determine how your assets are distributed. However, these rules may not reflect your personal intentions, guardianship preferences, or the specific financial needs of a minor child.

By creating an estate plan, it lets you make these decisions ahead of time. You can specify who manages your assets, who cares for your child, and how funds are used as they grow.

As a result, thoughtful planning also helps reduce delays, uncertainty, and potential disputes during a difficult period for your family. Using a reliable online Will-writing service in Singapore can simplify the process and make it more accessible for busy parents.

Appointing a Legal Permanent Guardian for Your Child

A guardian is the person who steps in to care for your child if you and the other parent can no longer do so. Keep in mind that Singapore law doesn't automatically assign this role to grandparents or relatives. So, you need to name a guardian in your Will for the appointment to be legally recognized.

When appointing a guardian, consider their parenting values, emotional readiness, location, and willingness to take on the role. Naming an alternate guardian can also provide additional protection if circumstances change.

Appointing a Temporary Guardian for Your Child

A temporary guardian is someone you appoint to care for your child on a short-term basis if you and the other parent are temporarily unable to do so, such as if you are stranded overseas, hospitalised, or otherwise unavailable. This arrangement ensures your child is cared for immediately while permanent arrangements are put in place.

Unlike permanent guardianship, a temporary guardianship does not transfer long-term parental responsibility. Instead, it allows the temporary guardian to make day-to-day decisions for your child, such as schooling, medical care, and daily living needs, during the interim period.

When appointing a temporary guardian, consider their availability, location, ability to step in at short notice, and familiarity with your child’s routine. Appointing someone who is physically based in the same jurisdiction can help avoid delays and practical difficulties. Naming more than one temporary guardian can provide added flexibility if circumstances change.

Setting Up Financial Protection for Your Child

In Singapore, children can't manage inherited assets on their own. According to Singapore's Ministry of Law, children are only allowed to receive estate monies once they reach the age of 21. So, if you leave money or property directly to a minor, the court may appoint someone to manage those funds, which may not align with your preferences.

A common solution is to include a testamentary trust when making a Will in Singapore. This allows a trustee you select to manage assets on your child’s behalf. This way, you can specify how the funds are used for education, healthcare, and living expenses, and when your child can gain full access. This approach helps your child benefit from your assets responsibly and over the long term.

All Wills prepared by NobleWills automatically include a testamentary trust where underage children are involved, ensuring their inheritance is held and managed responsibly until adulthood by the chosen trustees.

Naming an Executor/ Trustee You Can Rely On

Your executor or trustee (“Executor”) is the person responsible for carrying out the instructions in your Will. This includes settling outstanding debts, handling taxes, administering the estate, and distributing assets in accordance with your wishes.

For parents with young children, the Executor plays an especially important role. Their decisions directly affect how and when funds are made available to those caring for your child, which can significantly impact your child’s financial security and wellbeing.

When preparing a Singapore Will, you may appoint a trusted family member or a professional executor or trustee. Professional Executors bring neutrality, legal knowledge, and administrative experience, which can help reduce disputes and ensure your estate is managed efficiently and in line with your intentions.

NobleWills’ online Will-writing services in Singapore also allow you to include a Letter to the Executor, providing practical guidance on responsibilities, expectations, and next steps. This added clarity helps your Executor act confidently and reduces uncertainty for your loved ones.

CPF and Insurance Nominations Need Separate Attention

Your Central Provident Fund (CPF) savings are not covered by your Will and are distributed based on CPF nominations, which you need to complete separately. According to the CPF Board, 64% of members have not yet made a nomination.

For new parents, ensuring CPF and insurance nominations are up to date is particularly important, as these funds can provide immediate financial support for your child. Without nominations, the money goes through the Public Trustee’s Office, which can take months and incur fees. Regularly reviewing these nominations ensures they remain aligned with your estate plan.

When to Review Your Estate Plan

Estate planning is not a one-time task. Review your plan after life changes, such as:

• The birth of another child
• Marriage or divorce
• Property purchases or significant inheritance
• Changes in your intended guardian or executor

Reviewing your Will every two to three years helps ensure it remains aligned with current laws, personal circumstances, and evolving family needs. While legal fees can vary, working with a reputable Will-writing service in Singapore can make updates more straightforward, cost-effective, and less time-consuming.

Secure Your Child’s Future Today!

Estate planning for new parents means peace of mind and confidence that your child will be cared for no matter what the future holds. Start your planning early, update plans regularly, and consider working with trusted professionals.

With a reliable Will-writing service in Singapore, like NobleWills, we can help protect your family’s legacy. Our online platform provides a user-friendly experience, guiding you through the process step-by-step. For more information, contact us today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below are answers to common questions parents often have when planning their estate:

What happens if I die without writing a Will in Singapore?

If you pass away without a valid Will, Singapore’s intestacy laws decide how your estate is distributed. This may not align with your wishes, especially regarding guardianship or unequal needs of beneficiaries.

Can I change my child’s guardian later?

Yes. You can update your Will at any time. Many parents adjust guardianship arrangements as relationships, locations, or family circumstances change. By using a trusted online Will writing service in Singapore, updating your documents is simpler and more convenient.