Next of Kin Affidavit
Identify under oath the closest living relatives of a deceased person, in order of kinship. The Master of the High Court requires a next-of-kin declaration when an estate is reported without a valid will, and banks, funeral policy insurers, and the GEPF rely on it to determine who is entitled to inherit, receive benefits, or act for the estate.
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Download Blank TemplateNext of Kin Affidavit Affidavit — Frequently Asked Questions
What is a next of kin affidavit for the Master of the High Court?
When a deceased estate is reported without a valid will, the Master of the High Court requires a sworn next-of-kin declaration listing the deceased's surviving spouse, children, parents, and other close relatives. The Master uses it to establish who inherits under intestate succession and who may be appointed to administer the estate, so the details must be complete and truthful.
Who is considered next of kin in South Africa?
Next of kin follows the order of intestate succession: the surviving spouse — including a spouse in a customary marriage or civil union — and children come first, then parents, then siblings, and then more distant blood relatives. Banks, funeral policy insurers, and the GEPF may each ask for a sworn list of all known close relatives with their relationships and addresses before releasing money or benefits.
How do I make a next of kin affidavit affidavit legally valid in South Africa?
Fill in the next of kin affidavit affidavit, print it, and sign it in front of a Commissioner of Oaths — do not sign beforehand. Bring your ID document. Commissioning is free at any SAPS police station, and Commissioners of Oaths are also available at banks, post offices, and attorneys' offices.
Is this next of kin affidavit affidavit template free?
Yes. You can generate a completed next of kin affidavit affidavit PDF or download a blank printable template completely free, with no sign-up required. Your information is used only to generate the document and is not stored after the PDF is created.