Written answer by Ministry of National Development on housing options for youths who do not receive financial or practical support from any living parent or relative

Jul 2, 2024

Question No: 6275

Question by: Assoc Prof Razwana Begum Abdul Rahim

To ask the Minister for National Development what HDB housing options are available to children or youth aged between 12 to 23 years old who, because of parental death or separation, receive no financial or practical support from any living parent or relative.

Answer:

Younger orphans under 18 years old are typically placed in kinship care. If there are no suitable carers, MSF will place them in alternative care arrangements such as foster care or residential care. For those who are 18 years old and above and have inherited a fully paid up HDB flat from their parents, they can continue living in the flat.

For minors aged below 21 who inherit a fully paid up flat, HDB may allow the creation of a trust over the flat, which will be transferred to the child once they reach 21 years old. If the flat has not been fully paid up, HDB will treat these on a case-by-case basis, in consultation with an adult guardian when appropriate.

Adult orphans who are at least 21 years old can choose to take over ownership of their parents’ flat, if they have the financial means to do so. They can also purchase a new HDB flat with their siblings, or on their own under the Single Singapore Citizen scheme. Those with no other housing options may apply for a public rental flat with their siblings, or with another eligible single person under the Joint Singles Scheme.

The Member also asked about children whose parents are separated. For these children, as well as children whose parents are divorced, their parents continue to be responsible for their housing needs.