LOTTO Winners and Ex-Partners: Who Can Claim from Your Assets? A Legal Guide for South Africans

LOTTO Winners and Ex-Partners: Who Can Claim from Your Assets?

South African law considers lottery winnings a personal asset, which means they may be subject to division in the event of a separation or divorce.

South Africa has had more than a few LOTTO jackpot winners over the past few months.

But what if you’ve won the National Lottery – and an ex-partner wants to claim part of your winnings?

National Lottery jackpot winners often choose to be anonymous, because winning can come with associated risks.

But it’s important to understand how the law considers lottery winnings if you are in a relationship, married, or separated.

Winning the LOTTO

A LOTTO win or jackpot can only be claimed by the person who purchased the ticket

But who can claim from your assets?

South African law considers lottery winnings a personal asset.

In any case where personal assets have to be divided (for example, common-law marriages or marriages in community of property), LOTTO wins could make up part of this claim.

Are your finances and assets separate, or together?

Did you win the lottery whilst you were dating, or separating?

All of these questions can impact whether someone might claim from your assets.

If you are not sure, contact a lawyer with experience in asset division for help.

Conclusion:

If you win the LOTTO, it’s important to understand your legal rights and responsibilities.

If you are in a relationship, you should discuss your winnings with your partner and consider whether you need to put a financial agreement in place.