Concerns Regarding Unclaimed Benefits Process (Sanlam and Data Factory)

Dear Sanlam Team,

I am writing to express my concerns regarding the process for claiming unclaimed benefits. My late mother left behind six children and our stepfather. The youngest of us is 11 years old and has been under the care of our eldest brother since 2018. Unfortunately, our stepfather has moved on and is now living with his girlfriend.

It is disheartening to learn that Sanlam requires a letter of authority from our stepfather to claim the benefits, without conducting any investigations into our situation. Some of my siblings are unemployed, and it would be more equitable if Sanlam requested our FICA documents and affidavits to distribute the funds fairly among us.

I am disappointed that Sanlam and Data Factory are not taking a proactive approach, unlike other companies such as Liberty. I urge you to reconsider your process to ensure a fair and just distribution of the benefits.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.