By Ayanda Kalume, Administrator

It is important to know that we are ALL going to die, and that death is inevitable. Talking and preparing for life after death is not a pre-cursor for wishing upon death.

One should be able to sit down and discuss with their family about death and Estate Planning. They need to discuss it with an open mind. Discussions of:

• The possibility of additional,
• Financial status- loans that are owed to you and who you owe loans to,
• Investments etc.

Although we are living in the modern era there are still relatives or people who would like to take advantage of the deceased’s estate thus the importance of registering an Estate. We need to educate ourselves about the Administration of Estates Act and the procedures that are involved.

Can one prepare for death? I would say yes and below are some of the steps that you can take:

• Get legal advice about your Estate
• Always have photocopies and scanned copies of all your documentation. Original documents to be kept safely in a safe; safety deposit box or water and fire-proof document holder.
• Put measures in place for easy access of information- this information can be your passwords, bank details that can be given to someone you trust or held for you by a Lawyer etc. And discuss what you would like to happen to your social media accounts.
• Have a funeral policy – to help reduce the pressure associated with this difficult period
• Life insurance for the family members that you will leave behind.
• Have a WILL done –you do not need to wait until you get Assets to get one done. Enquire as to what is required for one and set about getting one. Master of the High Court charges of ZWL$30.
• Setting up of a Trust lodging cost of ZWL$50 at the Deeds office.

As we do not know when one will pass away, preparation is key, and it gives you the individual the peace of mind that your affairs are in order.

Should you require further information of setting up a Trust or getting a Will done, feel free to contact us.

#staysafe #lockdown2020