What's the difference between the tools?
Plan ahead for unexpected situations — use tools like an ACP, LPA, Will, and CPF nomination to ensure your care and assets are handled according to your wishes.
Last updated 4 September 2026
Legacy planning involves documenting your preferences and decisions on various matters pertaining to your care, welfare, finances, etc. so that these are known and respected if you lose mental capacity or pass on.
Our four tools work together to address two types of situations.
If you lose mental capacity
Advance Care Planning (opens in new tab) (ACP) helps your doctors and those you trust to tailor your care and treatment in a way that respects your preferences, when you are not able to speak for yourself.
The Lasting Power of Attorney (opens in new tab) (LPA) gives one or more persons you choose and trust the legal right to make decisions on your behalf when necessary. These decisions cover your personal welfare, property and finances.
Choose the same trusted persons to speak on your behalf in both your LPA and ACP to avoid potential disagreements on how to care for you.
If you pass away
A will (opens in new tab) sets out how you would like your assets to be distributed. However, your CPF savings will not be covered by a will.
Making a CPF nomination (opens in new tab) ensures your CPF savings are distributed according to your wishes. It also allows your loved ones to quickly receive your CPF savings upon your death. Without a CPF nomination, it can take up to six months for the Public Trustee’s Office to identify which of your family members are eligible to claim your savings and the Public Trustee will also deduct admin fees from your CPF savings.
Sudden death and loss of mental capacity can happen to any of us. Don't wait till it's too late. Plan your legacy today. Start with our Step-by-Step Guide.
