Originally published: 11 February 2022 | Last updated: 11 January 2026
Modern Will-making combines digital convenience with the legal requirements of the Wills Act 7 of 1953. While the drafting process has gone digital, the final document must still be a physical, signed, and witnessed document to be legally valid in South Africa.
What Is the Difference Between Digital, Electronic, and Online Wills?
| Term | Definition | Valid in SA? |
|---|---|---|
| Online Will | Drafted online, printed, signed, witnessed | Yes |
| Electronic Will | Created and stored electronically only | No (not yet) |
| Digital Will | General term for technology-assisted Wills | Depends on format |
Are Electronic Wills Legal in South Africa?
Not yet. The Electronic Communications and Transactions Act 25 of 2002 specifically excludes Wills from electronic signatures. Until the law changes, all Wills must be physically printed and signed.
What Are the Advantages of Online Will Services?
- Affordable and accessible
- Guided process—no legal knowledge needed
- Produces a professionally drafted document
- Easy to update anytime
- Includes digital asset management
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a Will on my phone?
You can draft a Will on your phone using an online service, but it must be printed, signed, and witnessed.
Will electronic Wills become legal in South Africa?
Possibly in the future, but there is currently no legislation permitting purely electronic Wills.
President and CEO at South Africa Legal Wills
Tim Hewson is one of the founders of 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.
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.
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