Answers to your questions
Have a question you would like answered? Email us and we may answer it. The questions here are based on ones from our readers, with identifying information removed.
Please note: GroundUp is just a news agency. We are not lawyers or financial advisors, and we have nothing to do with SASSA, Home Affairs, or any other government bodies. We do our best to make the answers accurate using publicly available information, but we cannot accept any legal liability if there are errors. If you notice any discrepancies, please email info@groundup.org.za.
What are my rights to my spouse's estate if he dies, and can my adult children legally challenge my decisions?
Only the appointed executor has the legal authority to manage and distribute the deceased's assets and settle debts.
How can my siblings and I get a copy of our deceased parents' will and do we have a right to their estate?
You can get a copy of your parents' will from the Master of the High Court. You are not guaranteed a share of their estate.
My father was retrenched and sought help from the CCMA. How do we complain if we believe the matter was dealt with unfairly?
Your father will need to take this matter to the Labour Court and can seek legal assistance from Legal Aid.
How can I evict an illegal occupant from my late father's house?
First find out if the house is still in your late father's name. You will need to get a court order to evict the illegal occupant.
How can I ensure that I don't get scammed when looking for a place to rent?
Always view the property, verify ownership and never pay before signing a lease.
I took out a bond of R140,000 in 2000. Now in 2025, my balance is still more than R100,000. What can I do about this?
Speak to one of the bank’s financial advisors about your bond repayments.
A South African au pair agency misrepresented placement and refused to refund fees, how can I protect future applicants?
You can report them to the International Au Pair Association (IAPA) if the agency is a member.
Can a school legally withhold my child’s report and force her to sign an acknowledgement of debt on behalf on a parent?
No. Section 41(7) of the Schools Act explicitly says schools may not withhold learners' report cards or take punitive measures against them over unpaid fees.
How can I register my father's death and cancel his grant without having to go to SASSA?
You need report your father's death to Home Affairs and SASSA will be notified of his death and cancel his social grant.
How can I make sure that my homeschooled child is able to write their NSC exams?
Homeschoolers can pursue the NSC through a formal CAPS curriculum provider or through a DBE-approved learning centre.