How to choose an executor for your will in Singapore?

Your executor steps in after you pass away, sorts out your estate, and makes sure everything reaches the people you've named. It's a role of real responsibility, so it's worth choosing carefully. This guide covers what an executor does, who can take on the role in Singapore, how to choose well, how many to appoint, and whether your executor can also inherit.

What is an executor?

An executor is the person you choose to carry out your wishes after you pass away. They locate your assets, settle any debts and taxes, apply to the Family Justice Courts for the Grant of Probate – the court order that confirms your will is valid and gives them the authority to act – and then distribute everything to the people you've named. In short, your executor turns your will into action.

What does an executor do?

Once you pass away, your executor:

• finds and secures your assets – a clear Schedule of Assets in your will makes this far easier
• settles outstanding debts, bills, and taxes
• applies for the Grant of Probate from the court
• keeps your beneficiaries and guardians informed
• distributes what's left to your beneficiaries, exactly as your will sets out

If a beneficiary is under 21, your executor also holds that child's share and looks after it on their behalf until they turn 21.

Who can be an executor in Singapore?

You can choose almost any adult who is willing and able to take it on. The main requirements are straightforward: they should be at least 21, of sound mind, and not an undischarged bankrupt. Beyond that, it's your call. Most people choose someone close – a spouse, an adult child, a sibling, or a trusted friend – and some appoint a professional, such as a lawyer, particularly for larger or more complex estates.

How to choose the right executor?

The best executor is someone you trust to follow your wishes faithfully and treat everyone fairly. Look for:

• Trustworthiness – they'll act in the estate's interest, not their own
• Fairness – they'll treat all your beneficiaries even-handedly
• Organisation – they're capable with paperwork, money, and deadlines
• Willingness – they understand the role and are ready to take it on

It's worth having a conversation with the person first, so the responsibility doesn't come as a surprise.

How many executors should you appoint?

Your will needs one main executor. Beyond that, there are two optional roles worth considering:

• A substitute executor steps in and takes over if your main executor can't act. It's optional, but we strongly recommend naming one – without a backup, if your main executor is unable or unwilling to serve, the court may need to appoint an administrator, which adds delay.
• A joint executor acts alongside your main executor. This is advisable if you have a beneficiary under 21 and you own property in Singapore. When property is held on trust for a minor, Singapore law requires two trustees – or a trust corporation – to act together to give a valid receipt when the property is sold, so two executors acting jointly keeps things straightforward.

You can appoint up to four executors in Singapore, though most people need only a main executor and a substitute.

Can your executor also be a beneficiary?

Yes. It's very common – many people name their spouse, an adult child, or a sibling as both executor and beneficiary, and there's no rule in Singapore against one person holding both roles. The two jobs are separate: as executor they administer the estate, and as beneficiary they receive their share like anyone else. Your executor should still act fairly towards the other beneficiaries. One separate point worth knowing: don't ask a beneficiary to act as one of the two independent witnesses when you sign your will, because a witness (or their spouse) can't inherit under it.

Will your executor be paid?

Executors aren't paid for their time unless your will allows it. When you create your will with MakeGoodwill, you can choose to allow your executor reasonable compensation from the estate – this option is switched on by default. Separately, any out-of-pocket expenses they pay while settling the estate, such as court or professional fees, can usually be reimbursed from the estate, whether or not you allow compensation.

Frequently asked questions