What is a trust?
A trust can protect assets for children, dependants, or future generations—but they’re widely misunderstood. Learn how trusts work in Singapore estate planning before dismissing the idea.
Last updated on 28 September 2026
Key takeaways
Creating a trust is an alternative way to distribute your estate
A trust arrangement provides for the needs of vulnerable family members
A living trust protects your assets from creditors if you're ever made bankrupt
You may consider setting up a trust if you want to:
Control and protect your family assets. You may also want the money held in trust to be invested
Buy a property for your child. Specify the age to have it transferred when your child grows up
Provide for a child who is a minor, or has special needs
Provide for an adult child who is careless with money
Protect your money in the event of a divorce
Protect your assets from creditors
If you have a dependant with special needs, you can approach the Special Needs Trust Company (SNTC) (opens in new tab) to help you set up a trust for him.
How does a trust work?
A trust is a legal arrangement between you (the settlor) and a trustee.
When you set up a trust, your appointed trustee takes ownership of your assets and manages them in the best interest of your beneficiaries. You can decide the terms of the trust including who your beneficiaries are, and how much power you wish to retain over your trust.
As assets placed in a trust are not part of a deceased’s estate, probate (opens in new tab) is not required, and disputes over the assets can be avoided.
Types of trusts
Setting up a trust during your lifetime
A living trust is set up during a settlor's lifetime, where the assets are transferred to the trust. Examples are inter vivos, discretionary or revocable trusts. It is done by executing a trust deed together with the transfer of assets to the trustee.
The settlor can revoke or terminate the trust at any time.
Testamentary trust
A testamentary trust is made using a will and takes effect after the settlor's death. This is useful where you have:
Young children
Dependants with special needs
Beneficiaries who may inherit a large sum of money but are unable to manage it
Once this trust is in place, it is irrevocable.
Tax matters
The statutory income of a trustee is subject to income tax (opens in new tab).
If you're a beneficiary of a trust, you'll be:
Assessed on your share of entitlement of income at your personal income tax rates
Getting the same tax exemptions and concessions given to taxpayers who are residents
If you're a non-resident beneficiary in Singapore, the trustee is required to pay tax on your share of entitlement at the prevailing trustee rate for that year of assessment.
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