By creating a will you are ensuring that your family does not have to face unnecessary complications with the administration of your deceased estate. If a South African passes on without a will (or if the will is found to be invalid), the estate gets administered in terms the Intestate Succession Act, Act 81 of 1987. A process will be followed whereby the state will appoint an executor for your deceased estate - this process takes time and during this time your assets are not accessible to your family. In addition to this, not making proper arrangement for the distribution of your assets can also slow down the administration of your estate. Thus, the sooner your estate is finalised, the sooner your assets or the income derived therefrom, can be applied towards the care and support of your family.