So what happens to your Facebook, MySpace, or e-mail when you die?  Who if anyone owns it? How can you ensure that only the person you have entrusted with this task can access and deal with your digital identity when you die.

Unfortunately, the answer is “it depends” each provider has their own policy which you usually agree to in the “terms of service” or some such check box.  For example, while Facebook and Gmail allow a representative of your estate access as long as the have the required documentation, Yahoo e-mail does not, the terms indicate that you can not transfer your account at death.

So what can you do?  One of the simplest and most practical things is make an inventory of those accounts you consider important.  An inventory is a list.  List the account, password,and what you would like to happen with that account.  Put this inventory somewhere safe.  Now this is important… tell someone about it.  An obvious choice is the executor of your will.  However, if this person is not very computer savvy, you may consider assigning this task to someone else and letting your executor know who this other person is out there, and what her role is.

If you’re interested in having a holistic look at estate planning and working with an attorney who places value on the parts of your legacy that are not monetary, please consider calling or e-mailing this office to set up your free consultation.