How to Wind Up a Deceased Estate

Winding up an estate in South Africa is a meticulous process governed by the Administration of Estates Act 66 of 1965. It involves the collection and distribution of a deceased person’s assets, settling debts, and ensuring that the estate is managed according to the law and the deceased’s wishes.

This article outlines the steps involved in this process, providing a clear roadmap for executors and beneficiaries.

Step 1: Reporting the estate

The first step in the winding-up process is to report the death to the Master of the High Court in the jurisdiction where the deceased lived. This must be done within 14 days of the death.

The following documents are required:

• Death certificate.
• Certified copy of the deceased’s ID Document.
• Marriage certificate (if applicable), as well as the antenuptial contract (if applicable).
• Certified copy of the surviving spouse’s identity document, should the parties be married in community of property.
• Original will (if available).
• Completed death notice form.
• Inventory of assets.
• Completed next-of-kin affidavit (if applicable).
• Nomination of executor (if applicable).
• Acceptance of trust.
• Certified copy of the executor’s identity document.
• CIPC documents if the executor is a company / closed corporation.
• Marriage declaration.
• Affidavit in respect of jurisdiction.

Step 2: Appointing an executor

The Master of the High Court will appoint an executor to manage the estate. If a will exists, it typically names an executor. If there is no will, the Master will appoint an executor, and this executor needs to be nominated by the intestate heirs.

An incorrect will and/or executor appointed in an estate without a valid will, may result in the Master asking for the executor to furnish a bond of security to the value of the gross estate. The executor receives a ‘Letter of Executorship’ granting them the legal authority to administer the estate.

Step 3: Gathering and valuing assets

The executor must identify, secure, and value all the deceased’s assets. This includes bank accounts, real estate, investments, personal belongings, and business interests.

The executor must also ensure that any income due to the deceased is collected, such as rental income or dividends.

Step 4: Settling debts and liabilities

The executor must settle all debts and liabilities of the estate.  This involves notifying creditors and settling outstanding accounts.

Creditors must be given notice of the deceased’s death and allowed time to submit their claims (outstanding bonds, credit cards, personal loans, etc.), which is done by way of an advertisement in the Government Gazette and a newspaper usually circulated in the area in which the deceased lived.

Step 5: Preparing the liquidation and distribution account

The executor prepares a liquidation and distribution (L & D) account which reflects the assets, liabilities, and how the net assets will be distributed among beneficiaries, either in terms of the will or the Intestate Succession Act. It must be submitted to the Master of the High Court for approval, and is also made avai-lable for public inspection for a period of 21 days.

Step 6: Paying creditors and taxes

The executor must ensure that all taxes owed by the deceased (including income tax, capital gains tax, and estate duty) are paid. SARS will issue a tax clearance certificate once all taxes are settled.

Taxes and liabilities (apart from administration fees) may only be paid once the Master has approved the L & D account, and after the inspection period expired with no objections lodged against it.

Step 7. Distributing the estate

Similarly to the payment of creditors, distributions and transfers of assets may only take place once the L & D account is approved and after the inspection period expired with no objections lodged against it. This distribution marks the final stage of the winding-up process.

Step 8: Finalising the estate

The executor must ensure that all steps are completed, including the transfer of property title deeds, and closing bank accounts.

Challenges and considerations

Winding up an estate can be a complex and lengthy process, often taking from several months to years.  Executors must navigate legal requirements, deal with potential disputes among beneficiaries, and manage the administrative burden.

It is therefore imperative you use an executor who is professional, experienced, and has operational ability.

While many feel comforted by nominating trusted friends and family to execute their estates, these individuals seldom have the necessary expertise and operational capability, and the Master may request that this individual is assisted by a professional.

The winding-up process in South Africa is detailed and requires careful attention to legal and financial obligations. Executors play a crucial role in ensuring that the deceased’s wishes are honoured and that beneficiaries receive their rightful inheritances.

By following the prescribed steps and seeking professional assistance, when necessary, the process can be managed effectively, providing closure to the deceased’s affairs and support to their loved ones.

WRITTEN BY VIRATH JUGGAI

Virath Juggai is a risk specialist.

While every reasonable effort is taken to ensure the accuracy and soundness of the contents of this publication, neither writers of articles nor the publisher will bear any responsibility for the consequences of any actions based on information or recommendations contained herein.  Our material is for informational purposes.