So much of our lives are lived online these days, and planning for what will happen to your digital accounts after your death is something we all have to think about.

Your so-called “digital legacy” can include digital assets such as:

• Books, movies, games, music and podcasts
• Domain names, websites and blogs you administer
• Access codes and passwords for financial accounts and utilities
• Accounts on platforms such as PayPal, Amazon and eBay

Licensing and ownership varies from platform to platform. Some licences can be passed on to someone else, but you will only know this if you read the end-user license agreement. It’s also important to think about devices and records that are not just used by you alone. For example, if your family shares smart devices like home assistants, or digital file storage systems, or if you control family accounts with Microsoft, Amazon, Apple or Google, they will need to know how to access them.

Another aspect to consider is your “digital presence”, which includes:

• Social media
• Messages
• Emails
• Photos and videos you have shared

Many social media platforms have options to memorialise your profile, including your posts and photos, so it can still be accessed by friends and family as a reminder, but not used to post on your behalf. Some allow you to nominate a ‘legacy contact’ who has limited access to manage the account. If you don’t do this in advance, your account can still be memorialised, but nothing can be changed.

Help for several platforms can be found here:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/help/103897939701143

Instagram: https://help.instagram.com/264154560391256/

X (formerly Twitter): https://help.x.com/en/rules-and-policies/contact-x-about-a-deceased-family-members-account

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/a1380121/

When it comes to cryptocurrency, it’s a good idea to specifically mention it in your Will, distinguishing it from your other general financial assets. It’s also helpful to appoint an executor who understands technology or has access to professional help. Document your crypto wallet addresses and seed phrases and store them safely. Some crypto exchanges offer beneficiary designations, much like superannuation.

Planning ahead for the management of your digital legacy can help your family navigate this time in a streamlined manner.

Our top tips are:

• List your digital assets as best you can
• Document access codes, passwords and usernames. Keep these secure and separate from your list of assets 
• Check the help section of your social media accounts for information 
• Set out what you wish to happen to your digital legacy in writing 

As with all estate planning, legal advice is essential. The Wills and Estates experts at Bickell & Mackenzie can help ensure everything you need is in place, saving your family from complications at a time when they are grieving.

To make an appointment with one of our solicitors, contact our office on: (07) 3260 8700 or email: info@bimalaw.com.au