How do I ensure that my digital assets are handled after my death ?

Managing digital assets after death requires careful planning and regular updates to keep pace with technological changes. This guide outlines steps to take to ensure your online presence is handled according to your wishes, including inventorying assets, choosing a digital executor, including assets in your will, using digital legacy services, setting up access and instructions, and reviewing and updating plans regularly. By following these steps, you can protect your online legacy and provide clarity for your loved ones.
How do I ensure that my digital assets are handled after my death

How to Ensure Your Digital Assets Are Handled After Your Death

Introduction

In today's digital age, it is crucial to consider what will happen to your online presence and digital assets when you pass away. From social media accounts to financial information, ensuring that your digital legacy is handled appropriately is essential for protecting your loved ones and preserving your memory. This guide outlines steps to take to manage your digital assets after death.

Step 1: Inventory Your Digital Assets

Create a List

  • Start by making a comprehensive list of all your digital assets. These can include:
  • Email accounts
  • Social media profiles (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.)
  • Online banking and investment accounts
  • Digital property like domain names or websites
  • Cloud storage services (Dropbox, Google Drive, iCloud)
  • Digital subscription services
  • Cryptocurrency wallets

Document Details

  • For each asset, document the username, password, account numbers, and any other relevant details.

Step 2: Choose a Digital Executor

Select a Trusted Contact

  • Choose someone you trust to manage your digital assets after your death. This person should be tech-savvy and understand your wishes.

Step 3: Include Digital Assets in Your Will

Consult with an Estate Planning Attorney

  • Work with an estate planning attorney to include your digital assets in your will. This ensures that your wishes are legally binding.

Reference Your Inventory

  • Make sure your will references the list of digital assets you created and specifies how they should be handled.

Step 4: Use a Digital Legacy Service

Explore Available Services

  • Consider using a digital legacy service like Google's Inactive Account Manager or LegacyLocker. These services can help manage your accounts after you're gone.

Step 5: Set Up Access and Instructions

Provide Access

  • Give your digital executor access to your inventory of digital assets using a secure method, such as a password manager or a sealed letter stored with your will.

Leave Clear Instructions

  • Leave detailed instructions for your digital executor on how you want each asset handled. This could include deleting certain accounts or maintaining others for archival purposes.

Step 6: Review and Update Regularly

Stay Up-to-Date

  • Technology evolves rapidly, so review your digital assets and instructions regularly to ensure they remain current.

Adapt to Changes

  • If there are changes in your assets or in the law regarding digital assets, update your plans accordingly.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can ensure that your digital footprint is managed according to your wishes after you're gone. It's important to remember that handling digital assets after death requires careful planning and regular updates to keep pace with technological changes. Stay proactive about this aspect of your estate planning to protect your online legacy and provide clarity for your loved ones.