A study revealed that only 28% of South Africans possess a valid will, while 65% have no directives whatsoever. Experts warn that advance planning helps avoid misunderstandings, delays, and conflicts in families who support loved ones across generations.
The latest Sanlam Legacy survey found that 65% of respondents had not drawn up a will. Furthermore, among those who did have one, 39% did not specify the person most likely responsible for completing the inheritance, where the document is kept, or what it contains.
This data comes against the backdrop that 34% of respondents support elderly parents, grandparents, or extended family, and 47% have helped settle the estate of a loved one.
The Importance of a Will to Protect Loved Ones
Lawyer Saki Morata, CEO of Sanlam Trust, emphasized that having a will serves as protection for loved ones, regardless of the size of their assets. He noted that despite this, an alarming number of people are found to either have no will or have one that is invalid and impossible to locate.
Morata stated that creating a will and dedicating time to proper estate planning—whether the assets are large or small—is about caring for people, not bureaucracy. He added that it protects what has been built, provides clarity for loved ones, and creates a stronger foundation for future generations.
Problems Families Face After Death
For those who have already dealt with a loved one's estate matters, the process often proved complicated. Only 22% of the 47% who assisted with the inheritance reported that the procedure went smoothly.
The most common issue reported by 26% of participants was disputes between relatives over inheritance. This was followed by delays in finalization and asset transfer (23%), legal and administrative costs (18%), and frozen accounts (12%).
Morata explained that a will is one of the few ways people can clearly state their wishes and decide who should carry them out. Without such guidance, loved ones may find themselves having to navigate the legal process during mourning, or important decisions may be made according to legislation rather than personal desires.
He concluded that estate matters usually proceed more smoothly if key decisions were made in advance, affairs were kept up to date, and family members knew where to find the necessary information.