What to Do When Someone Dies in Singapore — Step by Step
What to do when someone dies in Singapore can feel overwhelming. This guide explains certification, registration, wake planning, cremation/burial, and aftercare. Singapore Funeral Committee (SFC) supports families 24/7.

First Actions — What to Do When Someone Dies in Singapore
| Situation | What to do |
|---|---|
| At home (expected) | Call a GP/house-call doctor to certify. Then call SFC 9844 8444 to arrange collection and the wake. |
| At home (sudden/unexpected) | Call 995. After certification, contact SFC for next steps. |
| In hospital | Hospital issues the certificate. Contact SFC to coordinate transport, venue, and paperwork. |
| Overseas | Call SFC and your embassy. We handle repatriation and documents. |
Step by Step — What to Do After a Death in Singapore


- Obtain Medical Certification. A doctor certifies the cause of death.
- Register the Death. Use the certificate plus ID. See ICA and My Legacy.
- Engage a Funeral Director (SFC). Call 9844 8444 for transport, preparation, casket, permits.
- Plan the Wake. Choose 3- or 5-day packages, tentage, flowers, AV. Add our complimentary funeral montage.
- Book Cremation/Burial. We secure slots (e.g., Mandai cremation).
- Conduct the Wake. Follow rites; we manage sound, lighting, night-watch, and logistics.
- Funeral Day & Ash Collection. We oversee the service and next steps like Garden of Serenity or Sea Burial.
- Aftercare & Administration. Update banks/CPF/insurance; see My Legacy checklists.
Plan the Wake with SFC
Official Resources in Singapore
Need Immediate Help?
For urgent advice on what to do when someone dies in Singapore, contact us anytime.
