Originally published: 14 June 2019 | Last updated: 12 October 2025
A codicil is a legal document that amends specific provisions of an existing Last Will and Testament without replacing the entire Will. Like a Will, a codicil must be in writing, signed by the testator, and witnessed by two competent witnesses to be legally valid in South Africa.
What Is a Codicil?
A codicil is a supplementary document attached to your Will that changes, adds to, or revokes specific clauses. It is read together with the original Will. The Wills Act 7 of 1953 requires that codicils meet the same execution requirements as Wills—including signing and witnessing.
When Should You Use a Codicil?
- Minor changes such as updating an executor’s contact details
- Adding a small specific bequest
- Removing a single beneficiary
- Changing a guardian appointment
When Should You Create a New Will Instead?
- Major life events (marriage, divorce, birth of children)
- Significant changes to beneficiaries or asset distribution
- Multiple codicils already exist (creating confusion)
- The original Will is outdated or poorly drafted
With LegalWills.co.za, updating your Will is simple—edit online, print, sign, and witness the new version.
Why Codicils Can Be Problematic
Multiple codicils can create confusion about the testator’s final intentions. Contradictory provisions between the Will and codicils may lead to disputes. Codicils can also be separated from the original Will, making the Will incomplete.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a codicil?
A codicil is a formal legal amendment to an existing Will. It must be signed and witnessed like the original Will.
Is it better to make a codicil or a new Will?
For minor changes, a codicil is fine. For significant changes, a new Will is recommended to avoid confusion.
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.
