Death is the one thing that is inevitable to all of us, and the entire process can be made more acceptable for your loved ones if you plan properly and ensure that you have everything together that your executor may require to complete the estate administration process as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Documents/information required for administration of an estate
Therefore, to simplify matters, a detailed list of requirements is as follows:
- Original last will and testament.
- Original death certificate and DHA-1663-A Notification of Death Form.
- Identity documents of deceased and spouse, if applicable.
- Name, address of employer and salary number of deceased.
- Details of the pension fund.
- Name, address, and reference number of medical aid society.
- Income tax details (if registered).
- Name and telephone number of the accountant.
- Name, address, and telephone number of deceased’s usual doctor.
- Name, telephone number and case number from police station should the deceased have died due to unnatural causes.
- Partnership agreement and name and address of all partners.
- Particulars of company or close corporation business interests.
- Name and contact number of auditor/accounting officer.
- Details of divorced or predeceased spouse.
- Antenuptial contracts and/or divorce agreements.
- Original title deed in respect of each property and/or details of bank where bond account is held.
- Rates and taxes account(s) and/or details of the body corporate or managing agents.
- Registration certificates in respect of motor vehicles.
- Firearms – to be handed to a reputable dealer for safekeeping. Copies of licenses to be provided.
- Certificates/details in respect of timeshare.
- Electronic share account details of shares.
- Purchase and lease contracts.
- Bank and credit card statements.
- Details of accounts owing by deceased.
- Copies of identity documents of beneficiaries and marriage certificates.
- Copies of birth certificates of minor beneficiaries.
Once the nominated executor has the above information available there are certain official documents the executor needs to complete and then lodge with the Master of the High Court so that the Master can issue the letters of executorship which will allow the executor to officially start with the administration process of the estate.
The Administration of Estates Act 66 of 1965 instructs the nominated executor to report the estate to the Master of the High Court within 14 days of death but in practice that hardly ever happens. It is merely a matter of reporting the estate as soon as possible.
Please note that the content provided above is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. For comprehensive guidance and to ensure that you are fully compliant with the law, it is advisable to consult with a legal professional. For more detailed information or legal support, please reach out to our team.
