Originally published: 12 January 2017 | Last updated: 31 July 2025
TL;DR: Your primary New Year’s resolution must be to create a Will. More than 65% of South African adults fail to possess a valid Will. The process of creating a Will at LegalWills.co.za takes less than 20 minutes while you will protect your family and make sure your assets reach the beneficiaries you select. The estate planning process reaches completion through the addition of Living Will documents together with Power of Attorney documents and digital asset management tools.
Why Should Making a Will Be Your Top Priority?
Protect Your Family From Intestate Succession
Create a Last Will and Testament because it stands as your highest priority for resolutions. A Will protects your family, ensures your wishes are respected, and takes under 20 minutes to create online. The following resolution stands as the most essential matter when compared to all other resolutions.
Appoint Guardians for Your Children
Without a Will, the Intestate Succession Act determines who inherits your estate. Your spouse, children, and other relatives may not receive what you intended.
Choose Your Executor
The law requires you to create a Will which serves as the only official document for selecting guardians who will care for your minor children.
Manage Your Digital Assets
The Master of the High Court will select an executor who might be someone you do not know if you do not have a Will.
What Should a Complete Estate Plan Include?
- The digital asset instructions should be included in your LifeLocker documents which your executor needs to access all essential documents.
- Last Will and Testament: Asset distribution and guardian appointments
- Living Will: Medical treatment preferences
- Power of Attorney: Financial decisions during incapacity
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to create a Will online?
Digital asset plan: Instructions for online accounts
How often should I review my Will?
Under 20 minutes at 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.
