Dying without a valid will can leave families facing uncertainty, delays, disputes and unnecessary administrative costs, writes Phia van der Spuy in Personal Finance.
She highlights the importance of proper estate planning to ensure assets are distributed according to an individual’s wishes and to protect vulnerable beneficiaries, including minors and dependants.
A professionally drafted will can also help prevent family disagreements and provide clarity about inheritance. Phia stresses that estate planning should be reviewed when personal circumstances change.
Phia is a Chartered Accountant, holds a Master’s degree in Local and International Tax Law, and is a Fiduciary Practitioner of South Africa®, Chartered Tax Adviser and Trust and Estate Practitioner (TEP). She is co-founder of Trusteeze and Estateeze.