Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about deceased estate administration and how Estate Assist can help.
- What is a deceased estate?
A deceased estate is made up of the assets, liabilities, rights and obligations left behind when a person passes away.
The estate must be reported and administered before assets can be transferred or distributed to heirs or beneficiaries.
- Who can report a deceased estate?
A deceased estate is usually reported by the surviving spouse, nominated executor, family member, authorised representative or another person with the necessary information and authority to assist with the reporting process.
- What documents are usually needed?
The documents required may depend on the estate, but commonly include:
✓ Death certificate
✓ ID document of the deceased
✓ Marriage certificate or antenuptial contract, if applicable
✓ Will, if there is one
✓ Details of heirs and beneficiaries
✓ Asset and liability information
✓ Bank account, policy, investment and property details
✓ Contact details of relevant family members or representatives
- What happens if there is no will?
If there is no valid will, the estate is administered as an intestate estate.
This means the estate will be distributed according to the applicable rules of intestate succession. Estate Assist can help guide the family or authorised representative on the practical next steps.
- What is a Letter of Executorship?
A Letter of Executorship is issued by the Master’s Office and gives the appointed executor authority to administer the estate.
It is generally required in larger estates where a formal executor must be appointed.
- What is a Letter of Authority?
A Letter of Authority is usually issued in smaller estates where the Master appoints a representative to deal with the estate administration.
The appointed representative may then act on behalf of the estate within the authority granted.
- Can Estate Assist help if the estate has already been reported?
Yes. Estate Assist can assist at different stages of the estate administration process.
We may assist with follow-ups, estate financial administration, document coordination, Liquidation and Distribution Account support, asset transfers, communication and finalisation steps.
- Can Estate Assist help with Master’s Office delays?
Yes, where we are authorised to assist, we can help with structured follow-ups and communication regarding the progress of the estate.
While we cannot guarantee how quickly the Master’s Office will respond, we can help ensure that follow-ups are organised and that the matter continues to move forward where possible.
- Can heirs receive updates?
Yes, where appropriate and legally permissible.
Estate Assist believes in transparent estate administration. Heirs and authorised parties may be kept informed regarding the progress of the estate, subject to POPIA, confidentiality, the executor’s authority and applicable legal requirements.
- Can heirs see estate financial information?
Estate financial information must be handled carefully.
Where appropriate, authorised parties may receive information regarding estate finances and progress, subject to POPIA, confidentiality, the authority of the executor or representative, and applicable legal requirements.
- How long does deceased estate administration take?
The time needed to administer an estate depends on the complexity of the estate, the documents available, Master’s Office processing times, assets, liabilities, tax matters, property transfers, disputes and other practical issues.
Simple estates may move faster, while complex estates can take longer.
- Can Estate Assist assist with policies, bank accounts and investments?
Yes. Estate Assist can help coordinate information and administration relating to policies, bank accounts, investments and other estate assets.
Where third-party institutions require specific forms, authority or documents, we can assist with the practical process and coordination.
- Can Estate Assist assist with immovable property?
Yes. Estate Assist can assist with coordination relating to immovable property in an estate.
Where a conveyancer or attorney is required, we can assist with coordination between the estate representative and the relevant professional.
- Can Estate Assist assist with estate debts or creditors?
Yes. Estate Assist can assist with gathering creditor information, reviewing estate liabilities and helping coordinate the administration of claims against the estate.
- Is Estate Assist a legal service?
Estate Assist is a service by Cloete Inc and provides practical estate administration support.
Where formal legal advice, litigation, conveyancing, tax advice or specialist professional services are required, we may recommend that the appropriate professional be consulted or involved.
- How do I request assistance?
You can request assistance by completing the enquiry form on the homepage.
Once we receive the basic information, we will review the enquiry and guide you on the next steps.