In today’s digital world, estate planning is no longer just about wills, trusts, and physical assets. Many individuals now store valuable and sentimental information online, from financial records and social media profiles to treasured family photos. Without proper planning, loved ones may struggle to access these digital assets after someone passes away. That’s why digital estate planning is a crucial step in ensuring a seamless transition of your online presence. Below, we outline key steps you can take to organize and prepare your digital documents and accounts for the future.
1. Nominate a ‘Legacy’ Contact for Your Smartphone
Your smartphone likely holds access to your emails, financial apps, and personal memories. Apple and Android devices allow users to set up a Legacy Contact who can access important data after death:
- iPhone Users: Apple allows you to add a Legacy Contact through Settings > Your Name > Password & Security > Legacy Contact. This individual will receive a unique access key and, upon providing a death certificate, can retrieve important data.
- Android Users: Google does not offer a specific ‘Legacy Contact’ for Android devices, but users can utilize Google’s Inactive Account Manager (detailed below) to grant access to data.
2. Set Up Google’s Inactive Account Manager
Google offers an Inactive Account Manager, allowing users to specify what happens to their accounts (Gmail, Google Photos, Google Drive, etc.) if they become inactive for a set period. Here’s how to set it up:
- Go to myaccount.google.com/inactive
- Select a timeframe for inactivity (3-18 months)
- Choose trusted contacts who will receive access to your data
- Set up an auto-response message and instructions on what should happen to your accounts
3. Memorializing or Granting Access to Social Media Accounts
Social media platforms provide options for preserving a loved one’s digital presence after death:
- Facebook & Instagram: You can designate a Legacy Contact under settings, allowing someone to manage your memorialized profile. Alternatively, loved ones can request account deletion upon proof of death.
- Twitter (X) & LinkedIn: These platforms do not allow legacy contacts, but family members can request account removal with proper documentation.
4. Securely Logging and Sharing Passwords
One of the biggest challenges for families is accessing password-protected accounts. Consider these secure methods:
- Password Managers: Services like LastPass, 1Password, or Bitwarden allow you to store and share login details with a trusted individual.
- Physical Backup: Write down passwords and store them in a secure location, such as a safe deposit box or a safe in your house.
5. Granting Access to Digital File Folders
If you store important documents, photos, or financial records online, ensure a trusted person has access:
- Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive: Share important folders with your executor or legacy contact.
- External Hard Drive Backups: Keep a backup copy of critical files and grant access to a designated individual.
6. Managing Online Bills and Financial Accounts
Granting power of attorney access to financial accounts is crucial for handling ongoing bills:
- Online Banking & Utilities: Some banks allow you to set up a trusted contact who can access financial accounts.
- Bill-Pay Portals: List out recurring bills and payment methods in a secure document for easy management.
7. Backing Up Important Digital Property
Cloud storage can be lost if accounts become inactive or inaccessible. Back up important data:
- Use external hard drives to store copies of important digital assets.
- Periodically download and archive critical emails, documents, and photos.
8. Legal Considerations in Digital Estate Planning
To ensure that your digital estate plan is legally enforceable:
- Include digital assets in your will or estate plan
- Provide legal authority in your power of attorney documents
- Consult with an estate planning attorney to ensure compliance with state and federal digital asset laws
Contact an Experienced Tax & Estate Planning Attorney
Preparing for the future includes managing not just your physical and financial assets but also your digital presence. Taking these proactive steps ensures your loved ones have access to essential online accounts, documents, and memories when they need them most. If you need assistance with digital estate planning, consult with our experienced tax & estate law attorneys at Blasingame, Burch, Garrard & Ashley, P.C. to create a comprehensive plan tailored to your needs. You can reach us by phone at 706-354-4000 or fill out our online contact form.
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