The hidden costs of dying without a will

WHAT is the impact of leaving your loved ones to navigate your passing without a will? According to Sanlam Legacy, the cost of goodbye spans emotional, financial, and time-related burdens, and these can be overwhelming without proper planning in place.

- AMRITH BISHOON

Your nearest and dearest will be left to deal with far more than their grief. The costs will span funeral expenses, executor fees, estate taxes, and administrative delays. And perhaps most sadly, their relationships may be compromised as family disputes unfortunately arise all too often if a deceased’s wishes are not clearly and legally spelt out.

Master’s Office records show that more than 70% of South Africans pass away without a valid will. Based on South African population numbers, that means around 5 million single mothers and 8.8 million homeowners die without a will.

Dying is never easy to talk about, but avoiding these conversations can leave the people we love facing unnecessary distress and confusion. Estate planning isn’t a luxury. It’s a vital act of care - emotionally, legally, and financially - for anyone who wants to protect their family's future.

Hidden Costs of Passing away in SA

Anecdotal evidence suggests that estates take a long time to wind up in South Africa. Durations of two to five years are not unheard of. However, there are also instances where the process could be concluded in 12 months.