Why Making a CPF Nomination in Your 20s and 30s is a Smart Move
If you’re in your 20s or 30s, you might think legacy planning is something for way later in life. And honestly, you’re not alone—about 64% of CPF members between ages 16 to 65 haven’t made a CPF nomination yet. But here’s the thing: as you build up your savings and assets, making a CPF nomination is a smart, thoughtful move to ensure your CPF savings land exactly where you want them to after you’re gone.
So, what exactly is a CPF nomination?
Simply put, a CPF nomination is your legal way of deciding who gets your CPF savings and how much each person receives after you pass away. Without a nomination, your CPF savings don’t just go to your family automatically. Instead, they get handed over to the Public Trustee, who then distributes the money according to the Intestate Succession Act or the Inheritance Certificate for Muslims. This might not match what you’d have wanted.
Why do many people delay making a CPF nomination?
1. "My CPF savings will be divided equally among my family anyway."
This one’s a big misconception. Many believe that their CPF savings will automatically be shared equally between their family members. But no, that’s not how it works. In fact, under intestacy laws, once you have children, your parents won’t get a cut. The CPF savings will only be split evenly among eligible family members by law, without considering your personal wishes or family dynamics.
So, if you want to give a bigger share to someone who needs it more, or who has cared for you, a CPF nomination is necessary. Without it, the money might not reach the people you truly care about. Bonus downside: the Public Trustee charges administrative fees from your CPF savings to handle the distribution. These fees are GST-inclusive and can’t be waived. There’s a minimum $15 fee, and the rates vary based on the value of your estate:
| Value of Estate | Charge |
|---|---|
| For the first $5,000 | 6.50% |
| For the next $2,000 | 6.00% |
| For the next $3,000 | 4.25% |
| For the next $10,000 | 2.75% |
| For the next $30,000 | 2.25% |
Source: Ministry of Law
One more thing to know: your will cannot distribute your CPF savings because CPF savings are protected and do not form part of your estate. This is great news as it protects your CPF funds from creditors and ensures your savings go to your beneficiaries or nominees fully.
2. "I’m still young—I’ll do it later."
This is totally understandable. When you’re healthy and busy building your life, it’s easy to think making a CPF nomination can wait. But life is unpredictable, and it’s best to be prepared. Taking charge of your CPF nomination now means you’ll have peace of mind that your savings will be distributed exactly how you want, especially to those you care about.
And guess what? Making your CPF nomination is super easy and convenient! You can do it online anytime, anywhere using your Singpass. No need to step out of your home.
Need a witness? If you can’t find someone to witness your nomination, you can visit a CPF Service Centre, where Customer Service Executives can help as witnesses. Remember to book an appointment first!
3. "I don’t have a lot of CPF savings, so does it really matter?"
You might be thinking your savings aren’t large enough to bother with nominations. But honestly, even modest CPF savings can provide meaningful support for your loved ones during a difficult time. Having a CPF nomination makes the process smoother—the people you choose will be contacted within 10 working days to claim the funds, giving them timely financial help to cover expenses like funerals and medical bills.
Without a nomination, your family will have to prove their relationship with you to the Public Trustee by producing documents like marriage and birth certificates. This can delay access to your savings and cause extra stress for them when they already have a lot to deal with emotionally.
Why make a CPF nomination now?
Your CPF savings, no matter how much, deserve to go to the people you care about most. Making a CPF nomination isn’t just about money — it’s about making life easier for your loved ones when you’re not around. It saves them from administrative headaches and ensures your wishes are respected.
So, why wait? Head over to the CPF website or app and make your CPF nomination today. It’s quick, it’s free, and it gives you and your loved ones peace of mind.
Information in this article is accurate as of 18 August 2025.
