Digital assets are a big part of life now. From online bank accounts to social media, your digital presence carries real value. That value doesn’t disappear when you pass away, so it should be part of your estate plan.
What counts as a digital asset
Digital assets include everything you own online. This can mean email accounts, social media profiles, digital photos, music, videos, blogs, websites, online businesses, and cryptocurrency. If it lives online and you control it, it counts.
Cryptocurrencies can hold real financial value. Email and cloud storage might hold personal or business records. Even your frequent flyer miles or gaming accounts might be transferable or redeemable. Think about everything tied to a username and password.
Why digital assets matter in your plan
If you don’t include digital assets in your estate plan, your loved ones might lose access. They may not even know what you had or how to find it. Most digital platforms have strict privacy rules, and without instructions or access, your data could stay locked forever.
Your estate plan should include a list of your digital assets. Add login details and instructions on how to access or manage them. Consider naming a digital executor—someone who handles your online accounts.
Tools to manage digital assets
Start by listing your digital accounts and assets. Use a secure password manager to store login information. Some services allow you to name a legacy contact or set up a digital inheritance plan.
You can also include digital asset instructions in your will or trust. Be specific about what you want done with each account or item. Make sure your estate documents match the terms of service for any platform you use.
Don’t overlook the digital side
Your online life has real value. Include digital assets in your estate plan to make things easier for your loved ones. Clear instructions can prevent confusion and loss.