As daily life becomes increasingly digital, the assets we manage online deserve the same level of planning as physical property. From banking accounts to photo storage to cryptocurrency, digital assets can hold financial, practical and emotional value. Without clear instructions, loved ones may face major difficulties accessing or preserving them after your death.
Digital estate planning allows you to take control by organizing your online presence, identifying key assets and assigning access. Preparing now can help prevent confusion, loss or disputes in the future.
Preparing your digital estate plan
Taking time to prepare a digital estate plan is an important part of modern estate planning. These steps can help you protect digital assets and ease the burden on your family.
- Make a list of your digital assets: Start by identifying everything you own or manage online. This might include emails, cloud storage, banking apps, subscription accounts and cryptocurrency wallets.
- Store your login credentials securely: Keep usernames and passwords in a secure location. A digital password manager or a written list stored in a locked safe can provide access when needed.
- Decide what should happen to each asset: Think about which accounts you want deleted, preserved or passed to someone else. Social media platforms and online services often allow you to set specific post-death preferences.
- Select a trusted digital representative: Choose someone who can carry out your instructions and who understands how to handle online accounts. This person should be aware of where your instructions are stored and be capable of following through.
- Create separate written instructions: Keep your digital estate plan outside of your traditional will to maintain privacy. A separate document ensures account details and passwords are not made public during probate.
A complete estate plan today should ideally include both physical and digital components. Preparing for digital estate issues now can make a significant difference for those left behind. If you have questions or need help organizing your digital assets, seeking legal guidance can offer clarity and peace of mind.