Best Wills & Estate Planning in South Africa

A valid, up-to-date will is one of the most important — and most neglected — financial documents you'll ever have. Without one, your estate is distributed by law rather than your wishes, and the process is slower and more expensive for the family you leave behind. Below we compare South Africa's wills and estate planning providers on what they draft, what they cover and what they charge.

Will drafting vs estate cover

Two different things are bundled in this market. Drafting your will is often free — several providers (notably Capital Legacy) draft it at no charge to win your estate business. Estate and executor costs are the real expense when you die: executor's fees (up to a regulated maximum), estate duty, and administration that can take months. Some providers sell cover or plans that pay these costs so your family isn't left short. Decide whether you just need a will, or also want to cover the winding-up costs.

How we chose

We compared providers on will-drafting service, estate and executor cost cover, value and support. Fees and cover vary by estate, so details are indicative — confirm with the provider. Ratings are Rateweb's editorial opinion and not legal advice.

The best wills & estate providers at a glance

• Best estate specialist — Capital Legacy. Free will drafting plus plans that cover estate and executor costs.
• Deep expertise — Sanlam Trust. Established trust, estate and executor services.
• Trusted all-rounder — Old Mutual Wills & Estates. Will drafting and estate administration with a big adviser network.
• Best affordable cover — Legal&Tax. Will drafting and legal support through a low-cost membership.

Compare services, cover and executor options for all the providers below.

What a good will should cover

• An executor you trust (and a sense of the fees they'll charge).
• Guardianship for minor children.
• Clear beneficiaries for your assets, with no ambiguity.
• Regular updates after marriage, divorce, a new child or buying property.

Frequently asked questions

Is it really free to have a will drafted?

Yes — several providers draft a basic will at no charge, since they hope to handle your estate later. Complex estates may need paid legal advice.

What happens if I die without a will?

Your estate is distributed under the Intestate Succession Act, not your wishes, and the process is typically slower and more costly for your family.

What are executor's fees?

The executor who winds up your estate may charge up to a regulated maximum of the estate's value, plus a fee on income. Some plans cover this so your heirs receive more.

Next steps

Compare wills and estate providers below, then make sure your family is protected with life insurance and funeral cover. This is general information, not legal or financial advice — confirm details with the provider.