what to do when someone dies in south africa
A step-by-step checklist for families
If you're reading this, someone you love has died. We're sorry. This checklist exists so you don't have to figure this out alone. Take it one step at a time; there is no rush.
1. first 72 hours
These are the immediate steps to take care of in the days right after someone passes away.
- Obtain a death certificate from the attending doctor or hospital.
- Register the death at the nearest Home Affairs office within 72 hours.
- Notify immediate family members and close friends.
- Secure the deceased's home and personal belongings.
- Locate the will (check with the deceased's attorney, bank, or at home).
- Get at least 10 certified copies of the death certificate. You'll need them for the bank, insurance companies, the Master's Office, and more.
Tip: It's easier to request all certified copies at once rather than going back later. Most institutions require an original certified copy, not a photocopy.
2. funeral arrangements
Arranging the funeral is often the first practical task families focus on.
- Contact a funeral home to arrange the funeral or cremation.
- Check if the deceased had a funeral policy or life insurance that covers funeral costs.
- Place a death notice in a local newspaper if desired.
- Arrange the funeral service, burial, or cremation.
Tip: Bring these documents to the funeral home: death certificate, the deceased's ID, your own ID, and the burial order from Home Affairs.
3. estate reporting
The estate must be reported to the Master of the High Court. This is a legal requirement.
- Report the estate to the Master of the High Court within 14 days of death.
- Submit the death notice (J294 form) to the Master's Office.
- Submit the original will, if one exists.
- Provide a certified copy of the death certificate.
- Provide the deceased's ID document.
- Provide the nominated executor's ID and acceptance letter.
Tip: The Master's Office is part of the Department of Justice. Find your nearest office at justice.gov.za or call the Estate helpline.
4. executor appointment
The executor is the person legally authorised to administer the estate.
- Wait for the Master to issue Letters of Executorship (this can take 4–8 weeks).
- The executor opens an estate bank account.
- Notify banks, insurers, and creditors of the death.
- Notify SARS of the death for tax purposes.
Tip: If no will exists, the Master will appoint an executor. Family members can nominate someone by submitting the J190 form.
5. ongoing process
Once the executor is appointed, the administration of the estate begins in earnest.
- Compile an inventory of all assets and liabilities.
- Publish a notice to creditors in the Government Gazette.
- Settle outstanding debts from estate funds.
- Obtain tax clearance from SARS.
- Prepare and submit the Liquidation and Distribution (L&D) account.
- After the 21-day inspection period, distribute assets to heirs.
- File the final executor's account with the Master's Office.
Tip: Estate administration typically takes 6–12 months, sometimes longer. The executor must act in the best interests of the heirs and beneficiaries throughout.