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.

Topic: Inheritance | Show questions and answers for all topics

Can the only surviving adult child evict the grandchildren from their late grandmother’s house if there is no will?

No, they cannot evict their deceased mother’s grandchildren from her house. Your uncle is entitled to a share of the home as is the dependents of his deceased sibling's children.

Housing Inheritance

My late grandmother only listed one dependant to benefit from her house but there are five of us. Can this still be amended?

No, it can’t be amended after her death.

Inheritance

What should I do if my late parent's attorney lost their will and title deed, and we can't get hold of them?

You should be able to get copies from the Master's Office where the death was registered.

Inheritance

Can I get my parent's RDP house if they passed away before getting the key?

If the house had been awarded to your parent before they passed away, you should be able to get the house (unless they wrote a will saying otherwise).

Housing Inheritance

Am I still entitled to my inheritance after my mother's death if my stepfather took everything and remarried?

I think you could make a strong case, in terms of intestate succession, as you were her child, and the new wife had no relationship with her.

Inheritance

If someone gave you their title deed before their death, would you have rights to the house even if your name is not on the deed?

Unfortunately, your name has to be on the title deed for it to count. If there was no will, the law of intestate succession would apply.

Inheritance

How can I claim Government Employees Pension Fund inheritance if I was born out of wedlock?

You may need to contact the GEPF to follow up. A child who is financially dependent on the member can receive a GEPF child pension until they are 22 years old.

Inheritance

If I was a baby when my father died, do I qualify for the Government Employees Pension Fund even if my mother was the only one nominated as a beneficiary?

Dependents under the age of 22 qualify for GEPF benefits. If you were not nominated, the GEPF has the right to overrule the list of beneficiaries to include you.

Inheritance

In the case of joint ownership by multiple parties, what happens if one of the shareholders die?

The deceased's share will be divided between the remaining shareholders. Any major decisions regarding the property, like selling, need the approval of all co-owners.

Housing Inheritance

How can I help my minor child claim his inheritance if I don't have access to his deceased parent's documents?

Start by contacting the Master of the High Court in the area where your child's parent lived and explain the situation.

Inheritance