How can I get proof of existence of a deceased person who never had a birth certificate or ID?

The long answer

You will need to provide other evidence that he was alive. This evidence would be

1. A sworn affidavit by you about why he has no documents.

2. Sworn affidavits from people who knew the deceased and who could reasonably be believed: people like neighbours, family, community leaders, priests or doctors. These affidavits should state that they knew the deceased, and what the approximate age of the deceased was, and his history.

3. Alternative records like school records, church records, records of employment or baptismal certificates.

4. Medical records such as a “declaration of existence” if he ever visited a clinic or hospital.

As far as proceeding with the claim for the policy goes, you should contact the insurance company directly. Insurance companies generally have their own specific procedures for cases when a deceased person hasn’t got an ID. You would need to complete their claim form.

You could also get advice from Legal Aid, which is a means-tested organisation that must help people who can’t afford a lawyer. These are their contact details:

• Legal Aid

Email: communications2@legal-aid.co.za

Tel: 0800 110 110 (Monday to Friday from 7am to 7pm)

 Please Call Me: 079 835 7179

Wishing you the best,
Athalie