Have you ever wondered what happens to your digital footprint when you pass away? You should, especially if you’re one of the 85% of Americans who go online daily.
As the internet plays a continued role in our lives, the information we store online — from pictures and videos to financial records, emails, social media accounts, and more — forms a significant part of our legacy. This collection of online data is known as your “digital assets.” While the internet offers the convenience of accessing information with a click, your loved ones may find it challenging to access these digital assets once you’re gone.
Estate Planning for Your Digital Afterlife
Digital assets include any information you store or use online, such as your social media accounts like Facebook. While these digital assets might not have substantial monetary value, they often hold critical information or sentimental worth.
When planning your estate, it’s essential to account for these digital assets, as they are an integral part of what you own. Special arrangements must be made to ensure that your personal representative (often called an executor) — the person responsible for your estate in Charleston or elsewhere in South Carolina — can access your digital assets upon your passing.
Many online providers, such as Facebook, Google, and Yahoo, have specific procedures for handling accounts after death, so it’s crucial to look into those parameters and follow their rules to ensure your wishes are honored. Be aware that sharing usernames and passwords, even with your personal representative or successor trustee, could violate the terms of service for many online accounts, creating potential complications.
Don’t forget to include access to your computer, backup drives, tablets, and smartphones in your digital estate plan. Proactive planning is vital to ensure your digital assets are accessible when needed, and as with any estate plan, regularly updating your plan is essential.
Coordinating Your Online Digital Assets Within Your Estate Plan
In South Carolina, your digital estate plan may need to be formalized into a legal document, depending on your specific circumstances. You can appoint a personal representative specifically for your digital assets or designate someone to collaborate with your traditional personal representative to settle your digital estate.
Be sure to inform your personal representative about the location of your digital asset inventory for easy access. Since your will becomes a public document through probate, avoid including any usernames or passwords in it. Instead, refer to an external document containing all the necessary information regarding your digital assets.
Cover All Your Bases With Charleston Estate Planning
At Charleston Estate Planning, we understand the unique challenges of estate planning in South Carolina and in the modern world, including managing digital assets. Our team is here to help you create a comprehensive plan that covers every aspect of your estate, ensuring your wishes are fulfilled. Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation and protect your legacy in the digital age.
Charleston Estate Planning Law Firm
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