Protecting the people who depend on you

Enough to pay off your debts, cover the costs that come with a death, and replace the income your family would lose, for as long as they would need it. The right figure is different for every family, so we calculate it with a needs analysis rather than a multiple of your salary.

Yes. Your marriage system affects who owns what, what happens if one of you has debt, and how things are divided if the marriage ends or one of you dies. If you want to marry out of community of property, you need an antenuptial contract, signed in front of a notary before the wedding.

The person you name as guardian in your will. Without one, a court decides. Talk to the person first, and name a back-up.

If a child under 18 inherits and there is no trust, the money is usually paid into the Guardian’s Fund, run by the Master of the High Court. A testamentary trust, set up in your will, lets people you trust manage the money for your children until an age you choose.

Start early with a monthly debit order, even a small one, because it spreads the cost over more years. Common options include unit trusts and tax-free savings accounts. The right mix depends on when you will need the money and how much you can put away.

Yes. Medical aid schemes can apply waiting periods to new members and to plan changes, so organise your cover before you start trying for a baby, not after.