What Happens to Your Digital Life After Death

In today’s world, we live a large part of our lives online—banking, storing photos, managing businesses, even keeping our most personal messages on devices or in the cloud. But what happens to all of that when we’re gone?

While most people think of wills and estate planning in terms of houses, cars, or bank accounts, it’s just as important to consider your digital assets. At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we help clients plan for the future—and in 2025, that includes their digital lives.

What Are Digital Assets?

Digital assets can include:

  • Email and cloud accounts
  • Online banking and investment portals
  • Social media profiles (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
  • Cryptocurrency wallets
  • Domain names and websites
  • Subscription services (Netflix, Spotify, etc.)
  • Photos, documents, or videos stored online

These assets often have real monetary or sentimental value—and without clear instructions, they can become inaccessible or even lost forever.

Washington State and the Law on Digital Assets

Washington follows the Revised Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act (RUFADAA). Under this law, individuals can give their personal representative (such as an executor or trustee) permission to access digital accounts after death—but only if they do so explicitly.

That means your will or trust must specifically mention digital assets and authorize someone to handle them. Otherwise, your loved ones may face roadblocks due to privacy laws or provider policies.

What You Can Do to Prepare

Here are a few steps you can take now:

  1. Make a List of Your Digital Assets
    Include logins, accounts, and digital platforms you use frequently.
  2. Use Password Managers Wisely
    Tools like LastPass or 1Password can securely store your credentials—and access can be passed on with proper planning.
  3. Designate a Digital Executor
    In your will or estate plan, name someone you trust to manage your digital presence, and give them legal authority to do so.
  4. Leave Clear Instructions
    Specify what should happen to each account—should it be memorialized, deleted, transferred, or archived?
  5. Talk to a Lawyer
    Don’t assume your family can automatically access your online life. A Washington-based estate planning attorney can help ensure your wishes are respected—and legally protected.

Your Online Legacy Matters

Whether it’s priceless family photos, a YouTube channel, or a PayPal balance, your digital presence deserves protection and care. Planning ahead means your loved ones won’t have to scramble for access or deal with red tape during an already difficult time.

At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we help individuals and families across Washington build estate plans that reflect every aspect of their lives—including the digital ones.

Need help getting started?

Call us today to schedule a consultation. We’ll walk you through your options and help you create a plan that ensures your legacy—online and off—is preserved.