Today, most of us have a presence in the digital world—whether it's online banking, social media, cloud photo storage, email, or even recipes saved in a digital notebook. And while it might not be something we often think about, when we pass away, all of these accounts and digital spaces remain. Managing this “digital estate” can be a challenge for loved ones unless steps are taken in advance.

If you’re wondering what you can do now to help your family and friends manage your digital legacy, here are a few helpful suggestions:

1. Get Organized

Start by making a master list of all your digital accounts—everything from banking and subscriptions to social media and cloud storage. Include:

• Account names

• Usernames and passwords (or location of a password manager)

• Any security questions or backup access info

Be sure to keep this list in a secure place, such as with your will or in a password-protected document, and make it accessible to your designated person only.

2. Choose a Digital Executor

Just as you might name someone to manage your estate, it’s wise to assign someone to handle your digital afterlife. This trusted person—your digital executor—will be responsible for closing or managing your accounts, saving important files, and fulfilling any digital wishes you may have. Make sure to let them know in advance, so they’re prepared.

3. Social Media Planning

Some social platforms, like Facebook, allow you to designate a legacy contact who can manage your page once you’re gone. This may include memorializing your account so others can share memories or leave messages. Though they won’t have access to private messages, they can still keep your memory alive for friends and family.

4. Digital Banking & Financial Accounts

Finances are often the most complex part of managing someone’s digital life. To help simplify things for your loved ones, create a list of:

• Bank accounts (checking and savings)

• Credit unions

• Investment portfolios

• Retirement accounts

• Life insurance policies

• Bonds or savings certificates

Be sure to include contact information for each institution, your account numbers (when appropriate), and login credentials where possible.

5. Personal Files and Keepsakes

If you’ve digitized photos, videos, journals, recipes, or family records, let your digital executor know where to find them—especially if they’re stored in cloud drives or external storage. These types of files are often deeply meaningful for family members and can help preserve your story for generations.

6. Protecting Privacy

Make sure to clearly state your wishes for what you’d like kept, deleted, or shared. This helps protect your identity and prevents unintended access to your personal information.

Making It Easier for the People You Love
Your digital legacy is just one more way you can care for your family, even after you’re gone. Organizing and planning now relieves them of confusion and additional stress later.

If you’d like to learn more or talk about how digital planning can be part of your end-of-life conversations, the team at Ryan Funeral Homes is always here to help.