Nexver

The duration varies depending on the complexity of the case. For straightforward inheritance cases with a valid will and no disputes, the process typically takes 3-6 months. Cases involving intestate succession (no will), multiple beneficiaries, or contested inheritance can take 6-18 months to resolve completely. Our team works efficiently to minimize delays while ensuring all legal requirements are properly addressed.

When there is no will (intestate succession), Singapore's Intestate Succession Act determines how the property is distributed. Distribution follows a prescribed formula based on family relationships. For example, if the deceased was married with children, the spouse receives 50% of the estate and the children receive the remaining 50% in equal portions. Different rules apply for various family configurations. In such cases, a Letter of Administration must be obtained instead of a Grant of Probate.

Yes, HDB flats have specific inheritance restrictions. Beneficiaries must meet HDB eligibility criteria to inherit an HDB flat, including citizenship requirements, family nucleus conditions, and income ceilings for certain flat types. If beneficiaries don't meet these criteria, they typically have one year to sell the flat to eligible buyers. Additionally, if the flat is still under the Minimum Occupation Period (MOP), there may be further restrictions on inheritance and transfer.

The essential documents include:

• Original death certificate
• Original will (if available)
• Property ownership documents (title deeds, etc.)
• Identification documents of all beneficiaries
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Birth certificates (if relevant for establishing relationships)

Additional documents may be required depending on the specific circumstances of the inheritance case. Our team will guide you through the complete documentation requirements during your initial consultation.

Singapore abolished estate duty (inheritance tax) in 2008, so there is no direct tax on inherited property. However, other taxes may apply:

• Stamp duty may be payable when transferring property ownership
• Property tax continues to apply to the inherited property
• If the inherited property is sold, potential seller's stamp duty (SSD) may apply if sold within the holding period
• For rental income from the inherited property, income tax will apply

Our legal team provides comprehensive advice on tax implications specific to your inheritance situation.

Yes, overseas beneficiaries can inherit property in Singapore, but there are some important considerations:

• For private properties, foreign beneficiaries can inherit but must pay Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) if they choose to keep the property
• For HDB flats, foreign beneficiaries generally cannot retain ownership as they don't meet eligibility criteria, and the flat typically needs to be sold within a specified timeframe
• The inheritance process may be more complex with international elements, potentially requiring notarized and legalized documents from the beneficiary's country

Our team specializes in handling cross-border inheritance cases and can guide overseas beneficiaries through these complexities.