Digital assets: what people forget
Your life isn't just physical anymore
Traditional Wills focus on property, money, and possessions. But so much of life now exists online, and it's easy to forget these things need thinking about too.
What counts as a digital asset
Email accounts, social media, photos stored in the cloud, online banking, loyalty points, cryptocurrency, and subscriptions all count. Some hold financial value. Others hold sentimental value, like photos and messages your family may want access to.
The access problem
Even if you want to leave your digital photos or accounts to someone, they may not be able to access them without your passwords or specific authority, no matter what your Will says. Many platforms have their own rules about this.
What you can do
Keep a private, secure list of your accounts and how to access them, separate from your Will itself (a Will can become a public document during probate, so passwords shouldn't be written directly in it). Let your executor know this list exists and where to find it.
Cryptocurrency needs special care
If you hold cryptocurrency, it can be lost permanently if no one else knows it exists or how to access it. This is worth discussing specifically when you make or update your Will.
A small step with real value
Thinking about your digital life doesn't take long, but it can save your executor real time and stress, and make sure things you value aren't lost.
Let's cover the whole picture
When we help you with your Will, we'll make sure your digital assets are part of the conversation, not an afterthought.
This information is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your circumstances, contact us today.
