Sanlam’s survey also showed that generational exposure mattered. Where parents or grandparents had wills, younger generations were significantly more likely to draft their own.

Executive manager of Sanlam Legacy Amrith Bishoon said changing mindsets was critical.

“Many don’t realise that wills cover much more than money and assets. They record wishes for guardianship of children, can help reduce taxes, and provide clarity at a time when families need it most. The narrative must shift from ‘a will protects your wealth’ to ‘a will protects your children’ — no matter what you own,” said Bishoon.

Behavioural science specialist Dr Mavis Mazhura said: “We are not irrational, we are human; if there is no perceived urgency, we delay action. Writing a will can feel like emotional heavy lifting — an uncomfortable cold start that many avoid, putting it off indefinitely. By embedding will-drafting into life events such as buying a home, getting married, or having children, we can make it part of everyday planning.”

The survey also found that South Africans would be more likely to draft a will if:

services were free or low-cost (58%);step-by-step guidance was available (49%); andtrusted financial advice was accessible (46%).

CEO of Sanlam Trust advocate Sankie Morata said personal stories often drove action.

“To nudge more people towards drafting wills, we need to be authentic and real. Asking questions like: ‘Who will care for your special needs child if you pass away?’ or ‘How can you prevent a home being sold to fund addictions?’ These scenarios may be uncomfortable, but they highlight why a bulletproof financial plan is essential,” he said.

The release of the survey coincides with National Wills Week which is running from September 15 to 19 where members of the public can draft wills for free through participating legal practitioners nationwide.

Sanlam Legacy said making will-drafting simple, affordable and accessible is the key to moving more South Africans from intention to action.

“By helping families protect what matters most, we can ensure they leave lasting legacies of love,” the survey said.

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