A woman has taken her grievance over a death benefit payout to the Financial Services Tribunal (FST) after learning that her late father’s long-term girlfriend had been added as a beneficiary.
Unhappy with the decision, the woman sought to have the girlfriend removed from the beneficiary list, arguing that she was unfairly included in the distribution of the death benefit from her father’s retirement or pension fund.
While specific details of the case are still under review, the situation sheds light on the complex and often emotionally charged disputes that can arise when non-married partners are recognized in financial claims—particularly in cases where dependents or family members contest the legitimacy of their inclusion.
South African law allows pension fund trustees some discretion in allocating benefits based on dependency and relationships, which can lead to conflict between legal heirs and common-law partners.
The case highlights a growing trend in financial disputes, where blended families, long-term relationships, and informal partnerships create legal grey areas in the distribution of death benefits.
The Tribunal’s decision will not only affect the parties involved but could set a precedent for how long-term partners are treated in future disputes involving retirement and insurance benefits.
