The festive season is a time of celebration, connection and reflection on the year that’s passed. But while you’re buying gifts, booking flights and mapping out road trips, it’s worth remembering that while work may pause for a few weeks, life doesn’t. And neither should your insurance, your Will, or your estate plan.
Whether it’s life insurance, funeral cover, or a valid Will, uninterrupted protection is one of the most valuable gifts you can give your loved ones and yourself. Unfortunately, December is a time when policy lapses spike, often because people forget to pay or choose to skip a debit order to facilitate festive spending. But doing so can have severe consequences. Keeping your insurer and executor informed, and ensuring your estate planning documents are current, is essential for peace of mind.
Before you head off on holiday, take 10 minutes to double-check that your debit order will go off as planned and take another look at what you’re covered for and, more importantly, what exclusions your policy may have. “The holidays should be a time to enjoy life, not worry about it,” Deepesh Desai, CEO of FNB Life. “With the right cover in place and up to date, you can relax over December and enter the new year with real peace of mind.”
To help you prepare, here are practical reasons and tips to keep your insurance, Will, and estate planning active this December
- The gift that keeps on giving:
A life insurance or funeral policy that’s active and up to date offers your loved one’s financial security when they need it most. Similarly, a valid Will ensures your wishes are respected without delays or disputes.
- Life happens especially in December:
Road accidents and medical emergencies spike during the holidays. Your cover and estate plan should be ready for the unexpected.
- Premium breaks can cost you more than you think:
Missing a payment may suspend your policy, and reinstating cover isn’t always automatic. Likewise, delaying a Will leaves your family vulnerable to legal complications.
- Big moments need backup:
December often brings engagements, births, and major purchases. Review your beneficiaries, update your Will, and confirm your estate plan reflects these changes.
- Keep your insurer and executor informed:
Ensure your debit orders run as scheduled and share the location of your Will and estate documents with someone you trust.
“The festive season is also a time to reflect on your long-term financial plans and ensure that your estate is adequately funded to leave an inheritance for your family. Customers can easily achieve this by using the liquidity calculator on the FNB App (Navigate Life> Nav Money > My Will + Legacy),” says Carin Meyer, Fiduciary Product Head at FNB. “Keeping your life cover active is essential, but it’s equally important to ensure your estate plan and beneficiary details are up to date. These steps protect your loved ones and preserve your legacy.”
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