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ChecklistWills and EstatesMedium
Deceased Estate Checklist
Deceased Estate Checklist for preparing documents, facts, dates, and questions connected to wills and estates.
Time to prepare3-6 hours
Before you start
0/2 completedNeed help with this checklist?
Get support from a lawyer who works with wills and estates matters.
Before administration steps
0/2 completedOn consultation or executor day
0/2 completedAfterwards
0/2 completedWhen It Applies
A deceased estate has been reported or must be prepared for executor or attorney handling.
You need a practical estate-administration checklist after the first reporting step.
Not For
- Disputed wills, insolvent estates, estate-duty planning, or executor litigation without specialist advice.
Documents
- Death certificate
- Original will
- Letters of executorship or authority
- Master’s references
- ID documents
- Asset list
- Debt list
- Tax records
- Policy documents
- Beneficiary details
Timeline
- After death: secure the will and death certificate.
- After reporting: confirm authority and collect estate records.
- During administration: track creditors, tax, accounts, and transfers.
- Before distribution: confirm lawful approval and proof.
Tips
- Keep estate records in one folder.
- Do not treat nominated beneficiaries and estate heirs as the same thing without checking.
- Ask for advice if assets are missing, family disputes exist, or debts exceed assets.
Warning Signs
- The will is disputed.
- The estate may be insolvent.
- An executor or family member is acting without authority.
- There are minor children, foreign assets, trusts, or business interests.
Official sources
- Department of Justice Master: Deceased EstatesEstate administration and Master’s Office context.
- Department of Justice Master formsEstate forms and reporting context.
- Administration of Estates Act 66 of 1965Estate administration and executor authority context.
This checklist is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice.
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