Step-by-Step Guide to Planning a Funeral in Singapore
Planning a funeral can feel overwhelming, especially during a time of grief. In Singapore, there are structured steps and resources to help families honour their loved ones respectfully while complying with legal requirements. This guide breaks down the process in a clear, step-by-step manner.
1. Obtain the Certificate of Cause of Death (CCOD)
Before you can plan a funeral, you must obtain the Certificate of Cause of Death (CCOD):
- At Home: Contact a family doctor to certify the death. If unavailable or the death is sudden, call the police or SCDF.
- At Hospital: The attending doctor will issue the CCOD if the death is natural. For unclear causes, the body may be sent for autopsy.
- Why it matters: The CCOD is required for death registration, cremation, or burial.
For more details, see What to Do Immediately After a Loved One Passes Away.
2. Register the Death
In Singapore, death registration must be done within 24 hours.
- Where: Neighbourhood Police Centres, designated hospital counters, or online via the MyLegacy portal.
- Documents required: CCOD, deceased’s NRIC/passport, and informant’s identification.
Outcome: You will receive the official Death Certificate, which is essential for funeral arrangements and legal matters.
3. Engage a Licensed Funeral Director
A licensed funeral director simplifies the planning process and ensures that traditions and legal requirements are respected.
Services typically include:
- Collection and transport of the body
- Preparation of the body (embalming, dressing)
- Provision of the casket
- Wake and ceremony setup (venue, seating, refreshments)
- Assistance with cremation or burial bookings
Choosing a funeral director early allows for a smoother and more organized process.
4. Decide on Funeral Type and Venue
Consider your loved one’s wishes, religious customs, and family preferences.
Options for Venue:
- HDB void deck (common for Buddhist/Taoist wakes)
- Funeral parlour halls (Mandai, Sin Ming, Geylang Bahru)
- Home (for small family ceremonies)
- Place of worship (church, mosque, temple)
Options for Ceremony:
- Cremation: Most common in Singapore; book at Mandai Crematorium.
- Burial: Available at Choa Chu Kang Cemetery (limited to 15-year lease).
- Sea burial: Legal and arranged through approved sites such as Tanah Merah.
5. Arrange the Wake & Ceremony
- Duration: Typically 1–7 days depending on religion.
- Rituals:
- Buddhist/Taoist: chanting, joss offerings, prayer sessions
- Christian/Catholic: prayers, eulogies, hymns, mass
- Muslim: Salat al-Janazah (prayers)
- Hindu: cremation rituals led by priests
- Guest management: Seating, refreshments, condolence money collection, and ceremonial guidance
6. Manage Legal & Administrative Matters
After the funeral, attend to essential administrative tasks:
- Notify government agencies (ICA, CPF Board, IRAS, HDB, LTA)
- Inform banks, insurance providers, and employers
- Begin claims for funeral grants, insurance payouts, or CPF Funeral Grant
Learn more about funeral costs in Singapore (internal link).
7. Collect Ashes or Burial Follow-up
- Cremation: Ashes collected from Mandai Crematorium or chosen facility
- Burial: Gravesite arrangements at Choa Chu Kang Cemetery
- Sea burial: Ashes scattered at approved locations
- Mourning rituals: 7th day, 49th day, 100th day, or annual commemorations based on religion
Helpful Tips
- Pre-plan where possible to reduce stress on family members
- Ask for itemized funeral quotations to avoid hidden costs
- Consider grief counselling for family members and children
- Use online or printed checklists to track tasks
Final Thoughts
Planning a funeral in Singapore involves both emotional and practical considerations. By following this step-by-step guide, families can honour their loved ones with dignity, respect cultural and religious practices, and navigate legal requirements smoothly.
At Timeless Farewell, we provide guidance, support, and resources to make this difficult time as manageable as possible. Explore our funeral guide and religious practices pages to plan a meaningful farewell.
Need help planning a funeral? Reach out to licensed funeral directors or consult our detailed funeral guide to ensure every step is handled with care.