As more of life happens online, your digital presence becomes a meaningful part of your legacy. From banking apps and cloud storage to social media and cryptocurrency, the assets you control digitally need the same care and planning as your physical belongings.
Creating a digital estate plan does not have to be complicated, but it does require intentional steps.
1. Take inventory and organize your digital accounts
The first step is to identify all your digital assets. This includes email accounts, social media, financial accounts, cloud storage, photos, subscription services, cryptocurrency and anything else you manage online. For each account, record usernames, associated email addresses and how to log in. Make note of any added security such as two-factor authentication or security questions.
Keep this information in one central, secure place, such as a password manager or encrypted file and clean up any outdated or unused accounts.
2. Record your wishes for your digital assets
Once your inventory is complete, write down your preferences for how each account should be handled. For example, you may want your personal photos shared with family, your social media accounts memorialized or your blog taken offline. Specify who should have access to each asset and whether accounts should be maintained, closed or deleted.
This is also a good time to decide how you want valuable digital assets transferred. If you have business accounts, cloud documents or digital revenue streams, make it clear who inherits control.
3. Appoint a digital fiduciary and make your plan accessible
Designate someone to carry out your wishes for your digital estate. This person should be responsible, organized and able to manage technical tasks. Include backup contacts in case your primary choice is unavailable.
Some online platforms allow you to name legacy contacts or assign account access ahead of time. Take advantage of these features to streamline future access. Avoid putting sensitive login information directly into your will. Instead, store it securely and refer to it in your estate documents.
Skilled legal guidance can help prevent pitfalls and make sure your digital plan fits into your overall estate goals.
