Starting April 1, all Singapore citizens will be able to apply for Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) Form 1 without paying any fees, as part of efforts to encourage early planning for the future, including end-of-life decisions.

The permanent waiver, announced in Parliament on March 5, comes after a temporary fee exemption that had been in place until March 31. The standard application fee for LPA Form 1 is normally $70, while permanent residents pay $90 and foreigners $230.

LPAs allow individuals to appoint a trusted person, usually a family member, to make decisions on their behalf if they lose mental capacity. Form 1, granting general powers, is the most common LPA option, accounting for about 98% of all applications by Singapore citizens. Those creating an LPA are called donors, and the individuals they appoint are donees. For customised powers beyond the standard provisions, an LPA Form 2 drafted by a lawyer is required.

Recent statistics show that about 404,000 Singaporeans—roughly one in seven—have created an LPA. Among citizens aged 65 and above, about one in four has done so. The ministry hopes that the permanent fee waiver will boost participation, particularly among seniors and midlife adults.

“With the population ageing, it is important for Singaporeans to make their LPA while they are still fit and healthy,” said ministry representatives. “An LPA gives peace of mind, knowing that a trusted person can manage your personal, financial, and property matters if you are unable to do so yourself.”

In addition to the application fee, donors must pay a certification fee to a Certificate Issuer, who can be an accredited doctor, lawyer, or registered psychiatrist. Fees for certification vary, ranging from $24 to $60 for doctors, $50 to $300 for lawyers, and up to $1,500 for psychiatrists.

The ministry is also taking steps to make the application process easier to understand, particularly for seniors. This includes simplifying legal and medical terminology and providing guidance in multiple languages to ensure wider accessibility.

Experts note that early planning with an LPA not only secures legal protection but also reduces stress for families, giving them clarity on important personal and financial matters if the donor becomes unable to make decisions.

The permanent fee waiver is part of a broader effort to encourage Singaporeans to take proactive steps in managing their affairs and ensuring their loved ones are cared for in the future.