Originally published: 13 March 2015 | Last updated: 20 April 2025
Procrastination is the primary reason most South Africans do not have a Last Will and Testament. Despite knowing a Will is important, people delay—often until it is too late. This article examines the real barriers to Will-writing and explains why none of them justify leaving your family unprotected.
Why Do People Procrastinate on Writing a Will?
1. “I Don’t Have Time”
This is the most common excuse. In reality, creating a Will online at LegalWills.co.za takes under 20 minutes. You can do it from your phone or computer at any time—no lawyer appointments, no travel, no waiting rooms.
2. “Nothing Bad Will Happen to Me”
Life is unpredictable. Accidents, illness, and unexpected events can happen at any age. Without a Will, your family faces the intestate succession process—which is lengthy, costly, and may not reflect your wishes.
3. “I Have Nothing to Leave”
A Will is not only about distributing wealth. It appoints guardians for minor children, names a trusted executor, and records your wishes about funeral arrangements and digital assets. Even modest estates benefit from a Will.
4. “I’m Too Young for a Will”
In South Africa, anyone aged 16 or older can make a valid Will. If you have any dependants, own any property, or have specific wishes about what happens after your death, you need a Will—regardless of your age.
5. “It’s Too Expensive”
Online Will services have made estate planning affordable for all South Africans. The cost at LegalWills.co.za is a fraction of what traditional lawyers charge. The cost of not having a Will—legal fees, family disputes, and delays—far exceeds the cost of creating one.
6. “It’s Too Complicated”
Modern online Will platforms use plain-language questions to guide you through every decision. No legal knowledge is required. The system generates a complete, legally valid document based on your answers.
What Are the Real Consequences of Not Having a Will?
- Your estate is distributed by law, not by your wishes
- The court appoints an executor—possibly a stranger
- No guardians are appointed for your children
- Common-law partners inherit nothing
- Friends and charities receive nothing
- The process takes significantly longer and costs more
How to Overcome Will-Writing Procrastination
The solution is simple: set aside 20 minutes and do it now. Visit LegalWills.co.za, answer the guided questions, and print your completed Will. Then have it signed and witnessed. The peace of mind is immediate and lasting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of South Africans have a Will?
Less than 35% of South African adults have a valid, up-to-date Will. Over 65% die without one.
How quickly can I create a Will online?
Most people complete their Will in under 20 minutes using LegalWills.co.za.
He has over 20 years of experience helping people to write their Will and other estate planning documents. He has been interviewed by many of the major news media outlets and has contributed to articles in most leading publications. He has also contributed to a number of financial planning books.
Throughout his career, Tim has written extensively on the subject of Will writing and estate planning.
