Digital Assets Worksheet - Instructions

Technology is a big part of our lives. It has changed the way we do a lot of things, like socialize with one another, pay bills, and work. It has also changed how your estate plan needs to operate.  

Today, more than ever, your estate is composed of “digital assets.” These digital assets are information electronically stored on a device or on an online “cloud” server account. This includes access to your devices, email accounts, online bank accounts, benefit accounts, subscription services, social media, digital folders, and more. 

If your estate plan does not account for these digital assets, you may face many risks. Most notably, your loved ones could be unable to access these accounts in the event of your incapacitation or passing. The monetary assets could be unreachable. The accounts could be hacked. The services could continue to bill. And your loved ones might be unable to access pictures, videos, stories, and information that are personal and important. 

Your loved ones will want to do everything they can to figure out what accounts you have, access the information, protect your account, and bring any monetary assets to your estate. Unfortunately, it is incredibly difficult if the estate has not been prepared to account for digital assets. Thankfully, you still have time, and I can help. 

The first step is to help you record all of your digital assets. There are so many digital assets that you use in your day-to-day life, and our law office has a Digital Assets Worksheet to make sure that you don’t accidentally forget anything. The Digital Assets Worksheet has been prepared to account for all the different categories of digital assets and for all the different passwords, usernames, authentications, and PINs that your accounts may require. 

Once you complete your Digital Assets Worksheet, you will want to ensure it is stored somewhere safely, like in a fire-proof safe or a safety deposit box that your trustee or personal representative knows how to access.  

Next, I can ensure your estate plan allows your trustee or personal representative the authority they need to administer your digital assets. Depending on your state, your trustee or personal representative may not have this power if the estate doesn’t specify it. 

I look forward to helping you. If you have any questions about managing your estate or accounting for your digital assets, of if you would like to schedule a consultation, please call (312) 967-5841.