The formula
Adjusted commencement value = commencement value × (CPI at end ÷ CPI at start of marriage) Accrual = net end value − excluded assets − adjusted commencement value (not less than nil) Claim = (larger accrual − smaller accrual) ÷ 2
The Act uses the consumer price index for the months the marriage started and ended. Balawise uses Stats SA’s annual averages for the years you choose, so the result is a close approximation. Valuations of property, businesses and pension interests often decide the outcome — those need professional valuation.
Worked example
Married in 2010, divorcing now
Spouse A’s commencement value is adjusted for inflation before working out the growth in each estate. Spouse B, with the smaller accrual, claims half the difference.
How the accrual is calculated
- CPI adjustment factor2010 → 2025, Stats SA annual averages
- 2.09
- Spouse A: commencement value adjusted
- R418 651.89
- Spouse A: accrual (end − excluded − adjusted start)
- R1 981 348.11
- Spouse B: commencement value adjusted
- R0.00
- Spouse B: accrual
- R900 000.00
- Difference
- R1 081 348.11
- Claim (half the difference)
- R540 674.05
Frequently asked questions
What is the accrual system?
It applies to marriages out of community of property with an antenuptial contract that does not exclude the accrual. Each spouse keeps their own estate during the marriage, but when it ends the growth (accrual) in both estates is shared.
How is the accrual claim calculated?
For each spouse, take the net value of the estate at the end of the marriage, deduct excluded assets and the commencement value (adjusted for inflation). The spouse with the smaller accrual can claim half the difference.
Which assets are excluded?
Inheritances, legacies and donations from third parties, non-patrimonial damages (for example for pain and suffering), assets excluded in the antenuptial contract, and assets acquired with them.
What if no commencement value was declared?
The commencement value is generally taken as nil, unless liabilities exceeded assets. Declaring values in the antenuptial contract avoids disputes later.