What will happen if there are large amount of outstanding bills from one who passed away, assuming he / she does not have a next-of-kin?

Generally, the legal beneficiaries will be responsible to settle the oustanding bills. There are two possible scenarios:

Scenario 1: The person does not have a valid Will

In this case, the Intestate Succession Act will dictate the distrbution of the estate. And the beneficiary with prior rights will be able to apply to the court for Letters of Administration. Thereafter, he will be able to realise the estate to settle the oustanding bills.

More Details:

Intestate Succession Act Singapore

The Administrative Process on Dying without a Will in Singapore

Scenario 2: The person has a valid Will

In this case, the estate will be distributed to his intended beneficiaries and the beneficiaries will be responsible to clear the oustanding bills.

More Details:

What is a Will Singapore

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Creditors will go after your estate. balance after paying off creditors will be distributed. if no next of kin and no will, gov will take everything.