So, you are done writing and filing your estate plan.

But are you? … Really?

While you may have a plan for your tangible possessions, what about your online property?

Even if you share your passwords and usernames with family, legally, they may not

even have a right to access your online accounts.

In today’s ever-increasing digital world,

many people are accumulating an

unbelievable amount of digital assets. And, like your tangible assets, digital assets can be

transferred to friends or family when you pass

away.

In today’s ever-increasing digital world,

many people are accumulating an

unbelievable amount of digital assets. And, like your tangible assets, digital assets can be

transferred to friends or family when you pass

away.

What Are Digital Assets?

What Are Digital Assets?

• Electronic devices, including computers, tablets & smartphones

• Email accounts• Online banking, shopping &

bill-paying accounts• Webpages, domain names, blogs• Social networking accounts• Pictures, videos & digital music

As society continues to become more dependent on technology, it’s critical that

your family or estate plan executor has instructions and a solid understanding of your digital presence and how to manage

it when you’re gone.

A few reasons to address digital assetsin your estate plan …

• To ensure the financial and sentimental preservation of your digital assets.

• When you make it easy for your family and estate executors to find and deal with your digital assets, which makes it easier to manage your estate.

• Can help prevent identity theft. If your family members and executor can’t access your online accounts and deal with them efficiently, criminals may open credit cards, make purchases or obtain state identification cards under your name.

• Can prevent losses to your estate. If online bills aren’t discovered quickly, late fees and cancellation notices pile up.

How To Plan The Future Of Your Digital Assets

• Work with a trusted estate planner and attorney.

• Identify your digital presence and assemble a complete inventory of all digital assets, including a list of user names and passwords.

• List instructions for how each digital asset should be handled after you’re gone.

Estate Planning HelpEach state has different standards and guidelines about how to deal with digital assets. Not to mention, many of the online accounts have their own policies and procedures. While the law hasn’t really caught up with the digital world, it’s important to begin considering what digital assets you have and what you want to happen to them. Then, talk with your estate planners to incorporate this information into your overall estate plan. 

Email Rea & Associates for more estate planning insight,

orclick here to listen to episode 6: “the grim reaper is coming and he wants your money” on

unsuitable on Rea Radio.