Deceased Estate Administration
The Basic Legal Process
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Report the estate to the correct Master of the High Court
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Submit required documents (ID, death certificate, will, etc.)
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Obtain appointment as executor or representative
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Advertise for creditors in a local newspaper and the Government Gazette
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Value all assets and determine liabilities
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Pay off debts and taxes
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Distribute remaining assets to beneficiaries
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Submit final account to the Master for approval
TermMeaning
ExecutorThe person legally authorised to wind up the estate. Can be a family member or attorney.
Letters of Executorship / AuthorityA document issued by the Master giving legal authority to administer the estate.
Testate vs IntestateIf the deceased had a valid will = testate. If not = intestate (laws of intestate succession apply).
Estate DutyA form of tax potentially payable on estates over R3.5 million in value.
Liquidation & Distribution AccountA full statement of assets, liabilities, and distribution plan filed with the Master’s Office.
When someone passes away, their belongings, property, debts, and legal affairs must be managed in accordance with South African law. This process is known as Deceased Estate Administration. Whether there is a will or not, the estate must be formally reported to the Master of the High Court, and a legal process must follow to ensure all debts are settled and remaining assets are distributed to rightful heirs.
What the Law Requires (Legal Overview)
Under the Administration of Estates Act (Act 66 of 1965):
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All estates of deceased persons must be reported to the Master of the High Court in the jurisdiction where the deceased lived.
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An executor (or representative, for smaller estates) is appointed to manage the estate process.
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The appointed executor must act in terms of the law to:
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Identify, secure, and value all assets
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Settle debts, taxes, and obligations
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Distribute remaining assets to heirs and beneficiaries
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⚖️ Whether you're a spouse, child, family member, or appointed executor — professional help can speed up this complex process and prevent delays or mistakes.
When Is an Estate Considered "Small"?
If the estate is under R250,000 and there is no immovable property, it may be classified as a small estate and handled by way of Letters of Authority instead of full Letters of Executorship. This allows for a faster, simplified process — often completed in weeks.
🟩 We help families and executors determine whether their estate qualifies and assist with both small and full estate administration.
Why Professional Support Matters?
Deceased estate administration is a legal responsibility with serious consequences if mishandled:
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Delays in access to funds
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Inheritance disputes
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Missed legal deadlines
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SARS penalties or Master’s rejection of documents
✅ Working with our legal team means faster turnaround, peace of mind, and full compliance.
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