The final tax return: understanding taxes at life’s end

The final tax return: understanding taxes at life’s end The often-quoted phrase “nothing is certain except death and taxes” is crucial for estate planning. South African residents with local and offshore assets need to understand the tax obligations that will arise at their death. Unfortunately, many testators are unaware that taxes like income tax, estate […]

Can an email qualify as a last will?

Can an email qualify as a last will? “My aunt recently passed away suddenly due to Covid-19. In the hunt for her will, it transpired that she had sent an email to her attorney in which she had asked for amendments to be made to her will and for some of the beneficiaries to be […]

Is a copy of a will valid?

Is a copy of a will valid? “Both my parents recently passed away in a car accident. My father shortly before his death mentioned to me that they recently had a new joint will drawn up. I’ve searched everywhere for the will and can only locate a copy of the signed will. Even their attorney […]

Proceeds of a life right

Proceeds of a life right John and Sue are married out of community of property.  They both have children from a previous relationship.  They moved into a retirement village due to the “resort style” living, security and easy access to specialised medical care.  John bought the life right on their behalf (which he paid for).  […]

What happens if a Last Will and Testament is never signed by the person who makes it?

What happens if a Last Will and Testament is never signed by the person who makes it? In this era that we live in where time has become a scarce commodity for some, it is a real possibility that one can forget to sign the will that is lying on your desk (or on your […]

Don’t forget about your will when getting married or divorced!

Don’t forget about your will when getting married or divorced! In the highs of getting married or the lows of divorce, parties generally forget to think about their estate planning. This is understandable as no one wants to entertain thoughts of death and division of assets during those times! Unfortunately, such an oversight can create […]

Curatorship = A Relationship of Great Trust

Curatorship = A Relationship of Great Trust With all the vitamins we take in on a daily basis and medical advances happening every day, we tend to live longer, however, the mind is not keeping up with the rest of the body.  But what happens if you do not remember your name or the day […]