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Deceased estates process

Navigate the steps

We are deeply sorry for your loss.

At a time when so much feels uncertain, we hope to make this part of the process a little easier. This page has been created to guide you through the practical steps that follow the passing of an Investec Private Bank client.

Whether you are a client, executor or family member, this guide will help you navigate what’s next − from required documents and timelines to helpful FAQs − so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
 

Step 1: Notify us

Let your Private Banker know about the passing. They’ll notify our Deceased Estates team, who will place a hold on the relevant accounts.

Step 2: Executor is appointed

Whether named in a will or not, the executor must be formally appointed by the Master of the High Court before the process can be initiated. This appointment letter must be supplied to Investec.

Step 3: Provide the documents

The executor or family member will need to submit key documents − see full list below.

Step 4: The estate is wound up

Our Deceased Estates team works with the executor to settle debts, pay out any credit funds (if applicable) and close accounts.

What to do when a client passes away?

We’ve simplified the process into a few clear steps to help you understand what to expect and what’s needed.

Documents you’ll need

People meeting with an advisor

The process can’t begin without the right paperwork. Here’s what we need to get started:

  • Certified copy of the death certificate
  • Deceased’s identity document
  • Letters of Executorship/Authority
  • ID and proof of address of executor and/or agent
  • Contact details (telephone number and email address) of executor and/or agent
  • Marriage certificate (if applicable)
  • Power of Attorney (if applicable)
  • If an executor chooses to appoint a person/s with Power of Attorney, we will require the same FICA documents as that requested of the executor.
  • If an executor is not a South African citizen, please provide a clear copy of a valid passport as well as proof of address
  • Nominee schedule (if applicable)

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who is the executor of an estate?

    An executor is the person who is legally appointed by the Master of the High Court to manage the estate. It could be a spouse, family member, or a professional. An individual could be nominated in terms of the will, but they need to be appointed by the Master in order for Investec to process any estate-related requests.

  • How long does it take to wind up an estate?

    Generally, the process takes 6 to 12 months depending on complexity, documentation and third-party dependencies.

  • Do I need legal help to wind up a deceased estate?

    Often yes − especially in larger estates or those with property and business interests.

  • Can Investec act as executor of an estate?

    No, Investec does not act in the capacity of an Executor.

  • How long does it take for credit balances to be paid out from the estate?

    Once all required documentation has been submitted and verified, credit funds (such as positive balances in the deceased’s accounts) can be released to the estate.

    To protect all parties and ensure funds are paid out correctly, Investec follows a detailed verification process. This includes confirming the executor’s authority, verifying account information and performing standard checks with the relevant (receiving) banks.

    As part of this process, we will contact the appointed executor directly to confirm payment instructions and ensure that all legal and procedural requirements are met.

    The turnaround time may vary depending on the complexity of the estate, the quality of information provided, and the volume of cases being administered by the team. We aim to process verified payments as efficiently as possible.

Our scope of service

We will:

• Place holds on accounts
• Liaise with the executor and/or agent
• Pay out funds to the Estate Late account when instructed
• Provide statements for the deceased’s personal accounts on request

We are not able to:

• Provide legal advice or tax planning services
• Act without the required documentation, such as Letters of Executorship
• Share information with individuals who are not legally authorised to represent the estate
• Release funds before all verification steps have been completed
• Intervene in disputes between beneficiaries, family members or executors

Previous
Previous

We will:

• Place holds on accounts
• Liaise with the executor and/or agent
• Pay out funds to the Estate Late account when instructed
• Provide statements for the deceased’s personal accounts on request

We are not able to:

• Provide legal advice or tax planning services
• Act without the required documentation, such as Letters of Executorship
• Share information with individuals who are not legally authorised to represent the estate
• Release funds before all verification steps have been completed
• Intervene in disputes between beneficiaries, family members or executors

Helpful resources
Understanding deceased estate administration

Not sure what happens after a person passes away? This article clearly outlines the deceased estate process, including documentation, timelines, and executor responsibilities − with practical checklists to help you stay organised.

Reading time: 6 min

Everything Counts | Episode 18: How to do estate planning

This Investec podcast episode focuses on the fundamentals of estate planning − from executor roles to managing liabilities − with guidance from Investec’s tax and fiduciary experts.

Listening time: 18 min

Secure your family’s future – key steps in estate planning

Watch a panel discussion on planning ahead, featuring Investec fiduciary experts and resilience coach Nikki Bush.

Viewing time: 41 min

Contact us

If you’re still unsure of how to proceed, phone 011 263 5268 (Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 16:00) or email our team. Alternatively speak to your Private Banker who can assist

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