What to Do Immediately After a Loved One Passes Away in Singapore
Losing a loved one is an emotionally overwhelming experience. Amidst the grief, there are important steps to take to ensure that legal and practical matters are addressed promptly. This guide provides a compassionate and clear overview of the immediate actions to take in Singapore.
1. Obtain the Certificate of Cause of Death (CCOD)
The first step is to obtain the Certificate of Cause of Death (CCOD). The process varies depending on where the death occurred:
- At Home:
If the death was expected and natural, contact the deceased’s family doctor or any available doctor to certify the death. The doctor will issue the CCOD on the spot. If the doctor is unavailable or the cause of death is uncertain, you must call the police or the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF). The body will be transported to a hospital mortuary for further examination by a forensic pathologist. Once the cause is determined, the hospital will issue the CCOD. - At a Hospital:
If the death occurred in a hospital, the attending doctor will issue the CCOD if the cause of death is known and natural. If the cause is uncertain, the body will be sent to a hospital mortuary for further examination.
2. Register the Death
In Singapore, it is mandatory to register a death within 24 hours. This can be done at any Neighbourhood Police Centre or online via the My Legacy portal. To complete the registration, you’ll need:
- The CCOD
- The deceased’s NRIC or passport
- The informant’s identification (usually a family member)
Once registered, you will receive the official death certificate, which includes a unique death document number. This certificate is required for tasks such as organizing the funeral, notifying authorities, and managing the deceased’s estate.
3. Engage a Licensed Funeral Director
Engaging a licensed funeral director can ease the burden during this challenging time. A funeral director will assist with:
- Collecting the body from the home or hospital mortuary
- Preparing the body for the wake (including embalming or dressing)
- Providing the casket
- Setting up the wake venue
Many funeral directors offer packages to suit different needs and budgets. They will guide you through the available options and ensure that every detail, from ceremony to logistics, is managed with respect and care.
4. Decide on Funeral Arrangements
Once the death has been officially registered, the focus naturally shifts to planning a respectful farewell for your loved one. Consider the preferences of the deceased, whether cultural traditions, religious rites, or personal wishes. You’ll need to decide:
- Where the wake will be held (e.g., funeral parlour, place of worship, or HDB void deck)
- Whether to opt for burial or cremation
- The type of ceremony (e.g., religious rites, secular service, memorial)
Funeral directors can assist with these decisions and provide support in making arrangements that honor the deceased’s wishes.
5. Notify Relevant Authorities and Organizations
After the funeral, it’s important to inform relevant organizations of your loved one’s passing. This helps prevent unexpected deductions, stops ongoing transactions, and ensures that legal and financial matters are properly closed. Start with key government departments, including:
- Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA)
- Central Provident Fund (CPF) Board
- Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS)
- Housing and Development Board (HDB)
- Land Transport Authority (LTA)
Next, contact financial institutions such as banks and insurance companies to freeze accounts, halt GIRO deductions, and begin any claims or settlement processes. If the deceased was employed, their employer should also be informed to process final salary, benefits, or outstanding leave.
Helpful Resources
- MyLegacy@LifeSG – When Death Happens
- National Environment Agency – Post-Death Matters
- PKWA Law – 8 Essential Steps After a Loss
Final Thoughts
While the loss of a loved one is deeply sorrowful, taking these immediate steps can help you navigate the necessary formalities with clarity and support. Remember, you are not alone — there are resources and professionals available to assist you during this challenging time.
If you need further guidance or assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Timeless Farewell. We’re here to help you honor your loved one’s memory with dignity and respect.