Revised process for Main Member representation: Special Power of Attorney (POA) for policy changes
- Dec 10, 2025
- 2 min read
10/12/2025/2025
1. PURPOSE
To introduce a practical solution for cases where a Main Member (MM) cannot come into a Wisani/NLA branch to authorise policy changes, while still ensuring proper control and compliance.
In our previous communication, we advised that the Main Member must go to SAPS to obtain an affidavit. This defeats the objective, because if the Main Member can go to SAPS, they can usually also go to a Wisani branch.
2. NEW SOLUTION: SPECIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY (POA) FORM
With immediate effect, branches must use the Special Power of Attorney form for Main Member representation.
Key point: The POA form allows the Main Member to nominate a Representative to act on their behalf for policy administration such as claims, information requests, and policy amendments.
How it will work (Branch Procedure)
Representative visits the branch and requests the POA form.
Branch staff must explain that the Representative must take the form to the Main Member to complete and sign.
The Main Member completes and signs the form in the presence of TWO witnesses (the nominated Representative may NOT sign as witness).
The Representative returns the completed form to the branch with the supporting documents.
The following supporting documents must be submitted with the completed POA form:
• Certified copy of Main Member ID
• Certified copy of Representative ID
Branch stock requirement (hard copies)
• Each branch must print and keep 10 (ten) hard copies of the Special Power of Attorney (POA) form at the front desk at all times, so it can be handed to clients immediately for completion.
• Branches must monitor stock levels and replenish/print more copies as needed to ensure forms are always available. 3. IMPORTANT RULES AND LIMITATIONS 3.1 What the Representative MAY do
The Representative may (as authorised on the form) submit/sign claims, request/provide information and documents, and request/sign administrative amendments (e.g., add/remove beneficiaries, update contact details).
3.2 What the Representative may NOT do
This POA does not authorise the Representative to:
• Cancel the policy
• Change the Main Member
These actions must be confirmed directly with the Main Member.
Giving another person Power of Attorney does not take away the Main Member’s own right to manage or make changes to their policy, as long as they are alive and still have legal capacity. A POA is a delegation of authority, not a transfer of rights.
The Representative’s authority remains valid until revoked in writing by the Main Member, and it automatically terminates upon the death of the Main Member.
4. SUBMISSION AND ARCHIVING OF THE POA FORM
• Once the client/representative has submitted the signed Power of Attorney (POA) form (and supporting documents) to the branch, the branch must email the POA form to Archives at wisaniarchives@wisani.co.za.
• Archives will then file the POA form in the relevant client file for recordkeeping and future reference.
If any staff member is unsure how to apply this process, please escalate to your Branch Manager, who must contact Head Office for guidance.
Thank you for your cooperation in this regard.
Warm regards,
Lindie Lucas
Funeral Services Department
Download this memo here:
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