Published on Kiplinger.com
By Justin Stivers, March 15th, 2024
A digital estate plan lets your loved ones know what should happen to your email and social media accounts, photos and more after you’re gone. Don’t keep your plan to yourself!
In our increasingly digitized world, our lives are inseparable from technology. From cherished memories stored in digital photo albums to valuable assets held in online accounts, our digital footprint has become a significant component of our overall legacy. Yet, despite the prevalence of our digital presence, many individuals overlook the importance of digital estate planning for the management and distribution of their digital assets once they pass away.
This oversight can lead to confusion, disputes and even a loss of valuable assets for loved ones left behind. This is where digital estate planning becomes crucial — a proactive approach to ensuring that your digital legacy is managed according to your wishes. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll look at the nuances of digital estate planning, providing practical insights and actionable steps to help you secure your digital legacy effectively.
Ultimately, digital estate planning is about more than just preserving digital assets — it’s about preserving your legacy and ensuring that your wishes are honored and respected after you’re gone. By taking proactive steps to create a comprehensive digital estate plan, you can provide peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones, knowing that your digital legacy will be managed according to your wishes.
It’s essential to review and update your digital estate plan regularly to reflect any changes in your digital assets or preferences. New accounts may be created, passwords may change, and digital assets may accumulate over time. By keeping your digital estate plan current, you ensure that your wishes are accurately represented and can be effectively executed when the time comes.
Justin Stivers, Estate Planning Attorney, Stivers Wealth
