In an age where our lives are increasingly intertwined with technology, it's essential to consider the fate of our digital assets in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Estate planning for these assets is often overlooked and laws have not kept up with the pace of technology advancement. Did you know that most of our digital accounts are governed by End User License Agreements (EULA) or Terms of Service that many of us skim over or ignore completely?
Digital assets encompass a wide range of items, from sentimental photos and cherished memories stored in the cloud to financial accounts and important documents accessible online. Taking the time to understand and plan for the disposition of these assets ensures that your digital legacy is handled according to your wishes.
A Guide for Common Digital Assets
Google:
Google offers the Inactive Account Manager feature, allowing you to designate trusted contacts and set a timeline for account inactivity before they gain access. Navigate to your Google Account settings to set this up.
Apple:
Apple provides a similar feature called Legacy Contact. Through your Apple ID account settings, you can assign a trusted person who can request access to your data in the event of your passing.
Social Media:
As so much of our photos and social connections are on social media, you may want to consider your wishes for these profiles after you are gone. Would you wish for profiles to stay up? Do you want to allow memorial posts? Many companies have added features. For example, Facebook offers a specific feature known as the Legacy Contact to designate someone who can make these decisions for you.
Cellphone:
This device often holds valuable information and is crucial for accessing financial accounts and other important information online requiring two-factor authentication. Ensure your loved ones have access to your cellphone, including ensuring your bill is paid so service continues as well as writing down your password in a place your loved ones can find it.
In conclusion, taking proactive steps to include digital assets in your estate planning is a thoughtful way to protect your legacy and make the transition easier for your loved ones. By designating beneficiaries, understanding digital rights, and taking advantage of platform-specific features, you can ensure that your digital presence is handled according to your wishes.
Take the time today to safeguard your digital legacy for a more secure tomorrow