Stepping Up as a First-Time Executor? Here’s Your No-Stress Guide to Getting It Right

November 7, 2025

When someone names you as their executor in their will, it’s both a privilege and a responsibility. But let’s be honest—it can also feel overwhelming. You’re grieving, you're unsure where to begin, and there are legal documents flying at you from all directions.

This guide breaks down the role of an executor in Singapore in plain language, with clear steps and practical advice—even if you’ve never done anything like this before.

What Is an Executor, and Why Does It Matter?

Think of the executor as the “project manager” of someone’s final wishes. Once the person passes away, you’re responsible for making sure everything in the will is carried out properly—from funeral arrangements to distributing assets to the right people.

Common Misconceptions:

❌ "Only lawyers can be executors."

❌ "Once the will is written, there’s nothing more to do."

❌ "It’s just about dividing money."

Being an executor isn’t impossible—but it is a big job. That’s why it helps to have a checklist.

✅ Step 1: Understand the Will Thoroughly

Before making any moves, take time to read the will carefully.

🔍 Look out for:

• Special instructions (funeral wishes, guardianship of minors)
• Specific asset distributions
• Named beneficiaries

💡 Tip: Keep a copy of the will with you for reference throughout the process.

Understanding the will sets the direction for everything that follows.

✅ Step 2: Make Funeral Arrangements

Follow any wishes stated in the will for the funeral. If none are mentioned, consult the family.

💡 Tip: Keep receipts! Funeral costs can often be reimbursed from the estate.

✅ Step 3: Gather All Required Documents

To begin the legal process, you'll need to collect a number of important items:

🗂️ Document Checklist:

• Originating summons, Statement, and supporting affidavit
• Results of probate caveat and application searches
• Schedule of Assets
• Administration oaths, affidavits, consents of co-administrators, or renunciations (if any)
• Certified true copy of the Death Certificate or Court Order for presumption of death
• Certified true copy of the last will and any codicil, with translations if needed
• Foreign grant for resealing a Foreign Grant of Probate (if any)
• Inheritance Certificate (for Muslims)
• Any other supporting documentation

💡 Tip: Need help? You can apply at the eLitigation Service Bureau, or work with a lawyer or estate planner.

✅ Step 4: Apply for a Grant of Probate

This is a court-issued document that gives you the legal right to act on behalf of the estate. 

You’ll need to submit everything from Step 3, plus the Schedule of Assets outlining what the deceased owned and owed, including real estate and personal property, and review financial statements for any unpaid amounts.

Do I need a lawyer?Technically, no, you can apply for a Grant of Probate yourself at eLitigation Service Bureaus. But given how complex it can get, having a probate lawyer can save time and reduce stress.

After submitting the necessary documents, the application will be reviewed

and, if approved, you can extract the Grant of Probate.

✅ Step 5: Pay Off Debts, Taxes & Expenses

This step is all about protection — both for yourself and for the estate. 

At this stage, your role is to ensure all outstanding debts, taxes, and justified expenses are settled properly before any distribution takes place. It’s not just about doing what’s fair — it’s about following the legal process to the letter.

You’ll need to settle the deceased’s outstanding obligations such as:

• Credit card bills and personal loans
• Final income tax (check with IRAS)
• Funeral costs
• Medical bills

‼️ Special Considerations

• Don’t distribute assets until all verified debts and expenses are paid.
• Paying a debt out of order, especially in an insolvent estate, may make you personally liable to unpaid creditors.
• Seek advice if you’re unsure about debt priority or the solvency of the estate.

💡 Tip: To avoid personal liability and ensure a fair settlement for beneficiaries, keep detailed and thorough documentation of every payment and decision made.  If the estate is small or seems insolvent, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice early — it can make all the difference in navigating complex obligations with confidence.

✅ Step 6: Publish a Notice of Distribution

This is your way of saying, “If anyone’s owed money or has a claim, speak now.”

📢 How?

• Publish a notice in the Government Gazette or a newspaper to give creditors and claimants time to come forward.

🛡️ Why? 

This protects you, the executor, from future legal challenges and liability.

✅ Step 7: Distribute the Assets According to the Will

Now comes the part most people think about: giving out the money and property.

After obtaining the Grant of Probate and the notice period, and once debts are cleared, begin distributing assets to the named beneficiaries.

This could involve transferring property titles, bank accounts, or physical items.

⚠️ The court expects estate administration within about 6 months of the deceased's death.

✅ Step 8: Keep Proper Accounts of the Estate

Maintain clear records of:

• All money paid out (debts, taxes, expenses)
• Assets collected
• Distribution to beneficiaries

Share these records with beneficiaries for transparency and final approval.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone

Taking on the role of an executor is a meaningful act of service. It’s a way to honour your loved one’s final wishes while making sure their legacy is handled with care.

Just remember: it’s okay to ask for help. Whether you need legal support or financial guidance, there are professionals out there who can walk with you step by step and take the guesswork out of the process.

Consider professional help if:

• You’re unfamiliar with legal documents
• There are multiple beneficiaries or potential disputes
• The estate includes overseas assets or complex investments
• You simply feel overwhelmed

At PFP Legacy — whom we represent — our experienced lawyers can help you obtain the Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration, and guide you through each step of estate administration with clarity and care.

Contact us if you’d like us to support you through this journey.

The views expressed in this media do not necessarily reflect the views of PFPFA Pte Ltd (“PFPFA”). The information provided herein is intended for general circulation and not intended for distribution to, or use by, any person or entity in any jurisdiction or country where such distribution or use will be contrary to local laws or regulation. You should also note that the information presented does not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation or the particular needs of any specific individuals; and therefore, may not be appropriate to your individual needs. You should seek the advice of your financial adviser representative or a professional before making any commitment to purchase or invest in any investment product.

Estate planning services is provided by PFP Legacy Singapore, a sister company of PFPFA Pte Ltd. Estate planning and/or will-writing services are non-financial advisory services and thus are not regulated under the Financial Advisers Act.