What is a digital estate executor?

A digital estate executor is a person you legally designate to manage, access, and distribute your digital assets and online accounts after your death or incapacitation, following your specific instructions and legal permissions. This role is crucial for managing your online legacy.

Can my regular will cover my digital assets?

While a traditional will can include a clause granting your executor authority over digital assets, it often lacks the specific details (like account names, URLs, and instructions) needed for practical access and management. It's best combined with a detailed Letter of Instruction and potentially a Digital Asset Power of Attorney.

What happens to my social media accounts when I die?

The fate of your social media accounts depends on the platform's policies and your prior settings. Many platforms like Facebook offer "legacy contact" options to memorialize or delete accounts. Without specific instructions, accounts may remain active, be deleted due to inactivity, or be inaccessible to family.

How do I give my digital estate executor access to my passwords securely?

You should never directly share your passwords. Instead, use a reputable, encrypted password manager with an emergency access feature. This allows your executor to gain access only after your passing and a verification process, protecting your privacy while you are alive. Also, provide clear instructions on how to access the password manager's master password or physical key.

What if I don't designate a digital estate executor?

If you don't designate a digital estate executor, your loved ones may face significant challenges accessing and managing your online accounts. This can lead to lost digital memories, forgotten financial assets, ongoing subscription charges, and potential legal hurdles due to terms of service agreements and privacy laws.

How often should I update my digital estate plan?

You should review and update your digital estate plan, including your digital asset inventory and Letter of Instruction, at least once a year. It's also crucial to update it whenever there's a significant life event, such as creating new accounts, closing old ones, changing financial institutions, or shifting your wishes for specific assets.

Are cryptocurrency assets included in a digital estate?

Yes, cryptocurrency assets are a critical part of your digital estate. Managing them requires extremely specific instructions for your digital estate executor, including the secure location of private keys, seed phrases, or wallet access information. Without this, cryptocurrency holdings can be permanently lost.

Digital Estate Executor: Safeguard Online Assets | One…