Planning For A Funeral Service In Singapore: What Are the Immediate Steps to Take Once A Loved One Passes On
Key Takeaways
Planning a funeral in Singapore involves immediate steps like obtaining a Certificate of Cause of Death, notifying loved ones, and selecting a funeral director. Costs vary widely based on services, burial, or cremation preferences, ranging from $1,300 to over $10,000. Financial assistance, such as funeral loans, can alleviate the burden, ensuring a dignified farewell without undue stress.
Losing a loved one is undoubtedly one of the most challenging experiences anyone can go through. In Singapore, where tradition meets modernity, the process of planning a funeral incorporates both respect for cultural practices and the efficient use of available resources.This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the immediate steps to take and considerations to keep in mind when planning a funeral service in Singapore.Table of Contents
Planning A Funeral In Singapore
Here are the important steps to take when a loved one is lost.
Pronouncement of Death
In the unfortunate event of a loved one’s passing at home, the immediate step is to have the death legally pronounced. Contacting a doctor who can issue the Certificate of Cause of Death (CCOD) is crucial, as it differentiates between natural and unnatural causes.For unnatural deaths, it is necessary to involve the police, who will oversee the transport of the deceased to the mortuary.
Choosing a Funeral Home
Selecting a funeral home is a pivotal decision that influences the proceeding steps. Families should consider a funeral service provider that is not only well-versed in handling the logistical aspects of funeral planning but also sensitive to the family’s cultural and religious preferences.The cost of engaging a funeral director in Singapore can range significantly, from basic services starting at approximately $1,000 to comprehensive packages that might exceed $8,000, depending on the level of service and customisation required.
Notifying People
After you’ve got the initial plans sorted, the next step is to let friends, relatives, and colleagues know about your loss.This part can be really tough emotionally. This is why using a mix of digital ways to reach out, like social media, along with good old-fashioned phone calls, can help get the message out there more smoothly.It’s also a good idea to lean on close family members and buddies to help spread the word. This can take a bit of the weight off your shoulders during such a hard time.
Taking Care of Dependents
Taking care of kids or pets left behind is super important. You’ve got to figure out who’s going to look after them right away, thinking about what they need now and down the line.Plus, it’s the perfect moment to pull together your support crew for both the feels and the day-to-day stuff during the funeral and after everything’s settled down.
Gathering Necessary Documents
Compiling essential documents is a foundational step in funeral planning. This includes not only the death certificate but also the deceased’s will, insurance policies, and any pre-planned funeral arrangements.Having these documents in order facilitates the execution of the deceased’s final wishes and the efficient handling of their estate.
Key Considerations and Costs
In addition to organising the funeral, there are crucial steps that need immediate attention following the passing of a loved one.Most importantly, these steps come with a price tag, and these prices change depending on the situation. Let’s understand the process and costs associated with each step.
Passing On At Home
When a death occurs at home, the process for obtaining a Certificate of Cause of Death (CCOD) is initiated by contacting a doctor or, in some cases, the police for unnatural deaths. This certificate is essential for proceeding with funeral arrangements and legal matters.The cost associated with obtaining the CCOD ranges from $250 to $300, covering the essential paperwork required to proceed with funeral arrangements.The family needs to prepare the deceased’s identification documents and any available medical reports or prescriptions, which can assist in the swift issuance of the CCOD.
Passing On At The Hospital
Deaths occurring in a hospital are usually handled more straightforwardly, with the hospital’s medical staff responsible for issuing the CCOD.However, in case of unnatural death, there can be the need for an autopsy.A certified copy of the autopsy costs $160.5
Passing On Overseas
When Singaporeans or permanent residents die abroad, the situation becomes more complicated.Bringing them back home requires working together with the local officials, Singapore’s diplomatic missions, and funeral service companies to manage the repatriation of the deceased.The process involves several key documents, including a foreign death certificate, embalming and sealing certificates, and permits for coffin export and import.Costs for repatriation can range significantly, often starting from $5,000, depending on the distance and required services.
Engaging a Funeral Director
Funeral directors play a crucial role in easing the logistical burden on the bereaved family. They can guide the family through the necessary steps, from body collection to arranging the wake and funeral services.Comprehensive services typically include body collection, embalming, casket selection, venue arrangement, and conducting the funeral service. They may also assist with obtaining the necessary permits and coordinating the cremation or burial.The cost of hiring a funeral director in Singapore can vary significantly based on the services required.The high costs of bidding farewell to a loved one can add an unexpected strain during an already difficult time. 1AP Capital understands this and offers individualised loan solutions to help cover these expenses, ensuring a dignified service without financial worry. For compassionate assistance, discover how 1AP Capital can support you through this period.
Death Certificate
The Certificate of Cause of Death (CCOD) and the actual death certificate are two separate things. You get the CCOD first, which you then use, along with identification, to get the death certificate.Once the cause of death is identified and CCOD is issued, the next-of-kin (NOK) of the deceased can then download the death certificate from My Legacy. It’s an official government website for end-of-life planning.To get a copy of the death certificate online, you’ll need:
- The deceased’s NRIC, FIN, or passport number
- Death document number
- The date when the death occurred
Luckily, there is no fee for downloading the death certificate.
Obituary
Publishing an obituary serves as a formal announcement of the death and provides details about the funeral arrangements. It is a respectful way to inform a wider circle of friends, colleagues, and acquaintances about the passing.The obituary typically includes the deceased’s photo, name, date of death, family members’ names, wake location, and details of the funeral service.Costs for publishing obituaries can vary depending on the publication and the size of the notice. Most sources say $1300 is the starting price, but you might get a better price around $800, if you research and contact multiple newspaper agencies.
Funeral Arrangements
Planning the funeral involves several considerations, from the length and location of the wake to the choice between burial and cremation, all of which significantly impact the overall cost and execution of the funeral.The length of the wake often ranges from one to seven days, with three or five days being common choices. The location can be at the deceased’s home, a funeral parlour, or a community hall.Each option comes with its own set of considerations regarding cost, convenience, and capacity.You’ll need to think about costs like:
- Renting a Venue: If you’re planning to rent a space like a funeral home, church, or community centre, there will be rental fees. These can vary based on the size of the place and how long you’ll be using it.
- Expenses for the Funeral Service: Costs can also arise from the funeral service itself, which may include payments for clergy or officiants, music, flowers, and any other elements that are part of religious or cultural traditions.
- Cremation or Burial Fees: Choosing cremation means paying for the cremation process. If you’re going for a burial, expect to cover the cost of the burial plot and any associated cemetery charges. (More details below.)
Burial or Cremation
Cremation
These days, more people are opting for cremation, mainly because burial spots are only available for 15 years. However, it’s important to note that some faiths, like Islam, prohibit cremation, leaving burial as the sole option.For families choosing cremation, the next of kin (NOK) must secure a cremation permit through the NEA ePortal, essential for scheduling a cremation. While the Mandai Crematorium and Columbarium Complex is the public option, there are also two private options: Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery and Tse Tho Aum Temple.If you’re considering a private cremation at either the monastery or temple, you’ll need to reach out directly to them to arrange a time, as the permit obtained usually specifies a slot at the Mandai facility.
Burial
Burial options tend to be more straightforward as they’re less common nowadays. The Choa Chu Kang Cemetery Complex is the only remaining cemetery in Singapore open for new burials. It’s organised into sections for different religions, including Islam, Judaism, Chinese, and Christian communities, plus there’s a section for those without religious affiliation.If you’re looking to secure a burial spot, you’ll first need to obtain a burial permit through the NEA ePortal and then contact the cemetery to arrange for a plot.The cost of burial is subsidised for Singapore citizens and permanent residents, with fees ranging from $315 to $940, depending on the specific cemetery section.For foreigners, burial is possible if they have immediate family members who are Singapore citizens or permanent residents, but it comes with a fixed fee of $1,880 for the plot.Grave leases last for 15 years. After this period, the remains are exhumed. Depending on the family’s wishes and religious guidelines, they can then choose cremation or reburial in a smaller plot.If remains are cremated, families can collect them; otherwise, unclaimed ashes may be scattered at sea.
Estimated Cost Of Funerals In Singapore
So, what’s the estimated cost of a funeral in Singapore?Well, keeping track of all individual costs can be difficult if you are to perform everything on your own.Thankfully, there are service packages offered by funeral directors and companies. These companies can be found on the directory of My Legacy or by simply making a Google search.Basic packages start from around $1,300 but can exceed $10,000 (and even more) for more elaborate setups.
Funeral / Bereavement Loans
Given the potential high costs of funerals, considering financial assistance options, such as funeral or bereavement loans, is advisable.These loans can provide the necessary funds to cover immediate expenses, allowing families to plan a dignified send-off for their loved ones without the added stress of financial constraints.When selecting a loan, it’s important to consider the interest rates, repayment terms, and the loan amount to ensure it aligns with your financial capacity.Licensed moneylenders and financial institutions in Singapore offer various options tailored to meet funeral expenses, ensuring transparency and regulatory compliance.
Reflecting on the Journey Ahead
In facing the loss of a loved one, the process of planning a funeral in Singapore requires thoughtful consideration, a clear understanding of the steps involved, and awareness of the financial implications.While this guide has sought to provide clarity and support during a challenging time, it’s also important to acknowledge the practical aspects of funeral arrangements, including managing the costs associated with honouring your loved one’s memory.If you find yourself in need of financial support during this difficult time, we invite you to apply for a loan with us. At 1AP Capital, we are committed to offering a helping hand, ensuring that financial constraints do not stand in the way of giving your loved one a dignified farewell.