Executor checklist: the first six months (South Africa)
Section 29 advertisements, opening the estate late account, gathering valuations and preparing the Liquidation and Distribution Account. Practical, plain-English checklist for South African executors and family members.
Section 29 advertisements, opening the estate late account, gathering valuations and preparing the Liquidation and Distribution Account.
These checklists are written for South African estates governed by the Administration of Estates Act 66 of 1965 and the Estates Regulations.
Step 1: Place the Section 29 advertisement
Place the Section 29 notice in a local newspaper and the Government Gazette giving creditors 30 days to lodge claims against the estate. Keep proof of publication.
Step 2: Inventory and value the estate
Obtain valuations for immovable property, vehicles, jewellery, business interests and any artwork or collectibles. Bank balances are taken at date of death.
Reconcile the asset list against the liabilities lodged in response to the Section 29 advertisement.
Step 3: Prepare the Liquidation and Distribution Account
Compile the L&D Account: assets at date of death, liabilities lodged, administration costs (including executor remuneration under section 51 of the Administration of Estates Act and the Regulation 8 tariff where applicable), the estate-duty calculation and the distribution to heirs.
Lodge the L&D Account with the Master within six months of Letters being issued, or apply to the Master for an extension.
Practical tips
- Keep a single shared notebook (or vault) with every reference number, contact name and document location. Estate administration runs on follow-ups.
- When in doubt, write to the Master and the SARS estates branch in writing rather than relying on phone calls. A paper trail protects the executor against later challenge.
Frequently asked questions
When does the first six months window start?
The clock starts on the date of death (or, where Letters are required, on the date the Master issues Letters of Executorship).
Can a family member do this without an attorney?
Section 18(3) estates (gross value R250,000 or less) can usually be handled by a family member without an attorney. Estates above that threshold are technical enough that most families appoint a fiduciary practitioner or attorney to act as executor.