The Price of Delay: Why Avoiding Estate Planning Could Cost Your Family Everything
Putting off your will isn’t just procrastination—it’s an expensive family feud waiting to happen.
A few years ago, my client Ahmad's family was inseparable. They had their squabbles, sure, but nothing that couldn't be settled over a good plate of nasi lemak.
Then, their father passed away without a will. What followed was a legal nightmare that stretched on for years, draining their finances, testing their faith, and ultimately fracturing their once-close bond.
Unfortunately, Ahmad’s story isn’t unique. Across Muslim communities, families are learning the hard way that when it comes to estate planning, procrastination isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it’s a ticking time bomb.
The Growing Cost of Procrastination
In Singapore alone, the Islamic inheritance system (faraid) governs the distribution of assets upon death. Yet, despite clear guidelines, a staggering 70% of Muslims fail to draft a will, leaving their families vulnerable to disputes and costly legal battles.
According to estate planning experts, families without a clear will can expect to spend anywhere from SGD 5,000 to SGD 30,000 in legal fees alone—money that could have been used to support surviving family members.
Why the delay?
- "Tak cukup harta" (Not enough wealth): Many believe estate planning is only for the rich.
- Fear of conflict: Discussing inheritance is seen as a taboo topic.
- Procrastination: "I'll do it later" becomes "too late."
But here’s the kicker: waiting doesn't just cost money; it costs relationships. Siblings who once celebrated Eid together find themselves on opposite sides of a courtroom, fighting over who gets what.
When Sibling Rivalry Becomes a Legal Battle
Without a will, assets get frozen. Bank accounts, properties, and even vehicles are locked in bureaucratic limbo, forcing families to scramble through endless paperwork and long court proceedings.
This often leaves grieving family members desperate for financial support while waiting months—or even years—for asset distribution.
Take the case of the late Pak Amin, whose small inheritance of an HDB flat and some savings turned into a legal battleground for his five children.
With no clear documentation, the siblings couldn’t agree on selling the property or keeping it. The result? Costly legal intervention, mounting tensions, and years of unresolved disputes.
Islamic law provides a clear framework for distribution, but the process isn't automatic.
Failing to document assets and appoint executors can mean families end up fighting over what should have been peacefully resolved in a 30-minute planning session.
How to Save Your Family (and Money)
Avoiding estate planning is easy; fixing the mess it leaves behind isn’t. Here’s how to get started:
- Start small. Draft a basic wasiat (Islamic will) covering key assets.
- List everything. From property to savings accounts, document what you own.
- Appoint executors wisely. Choose someone who is impartial and reliable.
- Consult an expert. Engage an estate planner to ensure compliance with Islamic and local laws.
The process isn't as daunting as it seems. In fact, with modern online services, drafting a will can be done in under an hour.
The Bottom Line
Estate planning isn’t just about wealth; it’s about ensuring your family’s peace and unity. The longer you wait, the more you risk leaving your loved ones with nothing but heartache and legal bills.
So, don’t wait for tomorrow—because tomorrow may be too late. A simple will today could mean the difference between harmony and heartbreak for your family.
Book a free consultation at http://wiqayah.sg