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When someone passes away, a common question among families is whether the person named as executor in the will can also benefit from the estate. Often the deceased has nominated a spouse, adult child, or close friend — someone who naturally stands to inherit — as executor. So, is it legally allowed? And if so,...
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When someone passes away and leaves behind assets worth more than R250 000 that need to be managed — property, bank accounts, investments, a business (an estate) someone needs to receive legal authority to deal with those assets on behalf of the estate. That authority comes in the form of a document called the Letters...
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Understanding title deed registration costs is crucial when buying or inheriting property in South Africa. These costs include Deeds Office fees, transfer duty, conveyancer’s fees, and bond registration costs. Here’s a quick breakdown: Deeds Office Fees: Mandatory charges based on property value, starting from R50 for properties under R100,000 to R7,751 for properties above R20...
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When someone in South Africa passes away, their movable assets – like bank accounts, vehicles, jewellery, and furniture – must be managed and distributed according to legal procedures. This responsibility falls on the executor, who is appointed to administer the deceased’s estate. Executors must follow the Administration of Estates Act 66 of 1965, ensuring proper...
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Estate planning is more than just writing a will – it’s about protecting your family from unnecessary legal and financial stress. Many South Africans make costly mistakes that could leave their loved ones vulnerable. Here are the top 10 pitfalls to avoid: No Valid Will: Without a will, the Intestate Succession Act decides who inherits,...
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Five Ways to Simplify the Winding Up of an Estate in South Africa Winding up an estate in South Africa can be a lengthy and complicated process, often causing unnecessary stress for loved ones left behind. However, with proper planning, you can simplify the process and ensure that your estate is handled efficiently. Here are...
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Splitting Assets Fairly: How to Avoid Family Disputes Dividing an estate can be a challenging and emotional process, and if not handled properly, it can lead to serious family disputes. To ensure a smooth transition and minimize conflict, here are some key strategies to consider when planning your estate.  1. Discuss Your Will with Your...
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5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Choosing an Executor Choosing the right executor is one of the most important decisions you can make when planning your estate. Your executor will be responsible for handling your affairs after you pass away, so it’s crucial to ensure they are competent, experienced, and accessible. Here are five key...
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What happens to short-term insurance debit orders after a loved one has passed away? Managing Short-Term Insurance After a Loved One Passes AwayLosing a loved one is an emotionally difficult time, and dealing with financial and legal matters can feel overwhelming. One critical aspect that needs immediate attention is short-term insurance, which covers assets like...
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What is a Redistribution Agreement When Winding Up an Estate? When winding up a deceased estate, the division of assets among heirs can sometimes be complex, especially when the estate includes a mix assets. A redistribution agreement is a legal tool that allows heirs to allocate assets in a manner that suits all parties, ensuring...
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