As a mom, I’m always thinking about the legacy we leave for our kids. It’s not just about the photo albums and family heirlooms anymore; it’s also about our digital lives. That’s why I want to talk to you about something super important: digital executors.

What Exactly IS a Digital Executor?

Okay, let’s break it down. You probably already know what a traditional executor does. That’s the person who handles your will, makes sure your assets are distributed properly, and takes care of all the “stuff” after you’re gone. Well, a digital executor is similar, but they specifically manage your digital assets.

Think about it: what does your online life look like? It’s a mix of social media accounts, email, digital photos and videos, online banking and investments, websites or blogs, domain names, subscriptions, and even loyalty programs and digital wallets. A digital executor is the person you trust to sort through all of this, according to your wishes.

Digital Executor vs. Traditional Executor: A Modern Tag Team

It helps to think of your traditional and digital executors as a team. The traditional executor handles the physical world – the house, the car, your belongings. The digital executor takes care of your online world. Both roles are essential to ensure a smooth transition for your loved ones.

Why on Earth Do You Need a Digital Executor?

You might be thinking, “Do I really need someone to manage my Facebook account?” And the answer is, it depends. But there are some compelling reasons to consider a digital executor.

One significant reason is managing online financial accounts. Accessing accounts, paying bills, and handling investments can become very complicated without proper authorization. A digital executor can streamline this process, ensuring that your finances are handled efficiently.   

Preserving memories is another crucial role. Our photos and videos are often stored digitally now. A digital executor can help gather these memories, organize them, and ensure they’re passed on to your family.

Protecting your digital identity is also essential. Inactive online accounts can be vulnerable to hacking or identity theft. A digital executor can close these accounts, protecting your personal information.   

If you’re a blogger, freelancer, or online business owner, your digital assets are your livelihood. A digital executor can ensure that your website, social media, and online business operations are managed or transferred according to your wishes.

Ultimately, a digital executor can simplify the complex, bringing order to the potential chaos of our online lives, saving your family time and stress during an already difficult period.

Stories That Hit Home

I’ve heard some heartbreaking stories about families struggling to access a loved one’s digital life. Families facing difficulties accessing a deceased person’s online accounts is a common issue. These situations can add unnecessary grief and frustration to an already emotional time. A digital executor can help prevent these problems.   

Choosing the Right Person for the Job

Okay, so you’re convinced you need a digital executor. Now, who should you choose? This is a big decision, so here are some qualities to look for:

• Utmost Trustworthiness: This person will have access to incredibly sensitive information.
• Tech-Savviness: They should be comfortable navigating different online platforms.
• Organization and Attention to Detail: Managing digital assets can be complex.
• Willingness to Serve: Being a digital executor is a responsibility.
• Clear Communication Skills: They may need to communicate with various online platforms and family members.
• Emotional Resilience: Dealing with someone’s digital legacy can be emotionally challenging.

It’s also a good idea to choose someone who is relatively young, lives nearby, and has some understanding of your wishes regarding your digital assets.

How to Appoint a Digital Executor (The Practical Stuff)

Okay, let’s get down to the practicalities. How do you actually appoint a digital executor? There are a few options:

• Will: You can include a section in your will that specifically designates a digital executor.
• Digital Estate Plan: A separate digital estate plan is a more comprehensive approach, outlining your wishes for each of your digital assets and providing instructions.
• Online Platform Tools: Some social media platforms and other online services allow you to designate a “legacy contact” or similar role.

Key Elements of a Digital Estate Plan

If you choose to create a separate digital estate plan, here are some key elements to include:

• Designation of your digital executor
• Inventory of digital assets (usernames, passwords stored securely, etc.)
• Instructions for each asset
• Legal considerations (consult with an attorney)
• Regular updates

Storing Your Information Securely

This is crucial! You’re dealing with sensitive information, so you need to store it securely using a password manager, encryption, and secure physical storage, and by enabling two-factor authentication.   

Communicating Your Wishes

It’s not enough to just create a digital estate plan. You also need to communicate your wishes to your digital executor and your family.

Where to Find Help

Planning your digital legacy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Here are some resources that can help:

• Estate Planning Attorneys: An attorney can help you create a legally sound digital estate plan.
• Financial Advisors: A financial advisor can help you with the financial aspects of your digital estate. You can find helpful resources at [Pathfinder Planning’s website](https://www.pathfinderplanningllc.com/).
• AARP: They offer valuable information on digital estate planning.   

A Final Thought: It’s an Act of Love

I know this can be a tough topic to think about. But ultimately, planning your digital legacy is an act of love. It’s about taking care of your family and ensuring that your online life is handled with respect and consideration. It’s about preserving memories, protecting your loved ones, and providing peace of mind. And as a Mom, I can’t think of anything more important than that.

Pamela J. Horack, CFP® of Pathfinder Planning LLC provides personal financial planning advice and investment management for a simple fee to young adults and working families in North and South Carolina through group classes, one-on-one planning, and ongoing advice.

Citations:

[1] AARP: What Happens to Your Social Media When You Die?

[2] Nerdwallet: How Digital Estate Planning Can Protect Your Online Life

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