Originally published: 29 September 2021 | Last updated: 25 December 2025
TL;DR: Update your Will after major life events (marriage, divorce, children, property changes) or at least every 1–2 years. Options: create a codicil (minor changes) or a new Will (major changes). With LegalWills.co.za, updating is simple. Edit online, print, sign, witness.
TL;DR: You should update your Will after every major life change which includes marriage and divorce and child birth and property modifications and you need to review it every two years. Options: create a codicil (minor changes) or a new Will (major changes). With LegalWills.co.za, updating is simple. Edit online, print, sign, witness.
When Should You Update Your Will?
- You need to update your Will because this document requires continuous maintenance. People who maintain old Wills face the same problems which happen when someone dies without creating any Will at all. The process of Will updating in South Africa requires specific timing and procedures to follow.
- Marriage or divorce
- Birth or adoption of children
- Death of a beneficiary or executor
- Significant change in assets or debts
- Change in personal relationships
- Moving to a new province or country
- Changes in tax or succession law
How Do You Update Your Will?
Option 1: Create a New Will
At least every 1–2 years regardless
Option 2: Add a Codicil
The method works best when people need to change their documents extensively. A revocation clause needs to be added to every Will. With LegalWills.co.za, users can edit their documents through online access before they print and sign them under witness protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I update my Will?
For minor changes only. Must be signed and witnessed like the original Will.
Do I need a new Will after divorce?
You need to update your Will every two years but you must do it right after any significant life change occurs. People should get new Wills after they get divorced. The South African legal system cancels all benefits which a divorced spouse received through a Will after three months but you should definitely write a new Will.
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.
