What happens to your online accounts, digital photos, and personal data when you pass away or become incapacitated?
Most people have a clear idea of who should receive their home, their car, or their savings. However, in today’s increasingly digital world, we also need to plan for the assets that live behind screens. Whether it is your email, social media, cryptocurrency, cloud storage, or even that blog you started years ago, your digital assets can hold both sentimental and financial value. Without a plan, your loved ones may face unnecessary complications or lose access entirely.
Florida has recognized this modern concern with the Florida Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act. This law allows individuals to legally grant access to their digital property to trusted agents. But this access must be clearly spelled out in your estate planning documents. A durable power of attorney, trust, or will that does not include language for digital assets could leave your personal representative powerless. That is why it is essential to review your plan with an experienced Florida estate planning attorney who understands both Florida law and how to protect your online life.
If you do not yet have a Florida estate plan in place, it is never too late to start. Planning from the ground up allows you to create a clear, organized structure for your assets, including everything from your Dropbox folders to your Venmo history. We recommend beginning with a digital inventory. A simple list of your accounts, login credentials, and what you would like to happen to each one. This step is especially helpful for your loved ones and should be updated regularly, just like your plan.
For those who already have a Florida estate plan, now is a great time to revisit it. Ask yourself: does my plan include digital assets? Have I named someone who understands how to access and manage them? Do I have the right authorizations in place? These are not minor details. They can make the difference between a seamless transition and a frustrating, costly process.
Even beyond access, you will want to consider your digital legacy. Do you want your social media accounts memorialized or deleted? Should certain online content be preserved for your children or grandchildren? What should happen to digital income streams or intellectual property? Including this guidance in your estate plan provides clarity and comfort for your loved ones and ensures your legacy reflects your wishes.
Estate planning is about protecting what matters most, and that includes your online presence. At Perlin Estate Planning & Probate, we help Florida families create thoughtful, complete plans that account for the way we live today. Whether you are starting fresh or updating an existing plan, we are here to guide you through the process with clarity, compassion, and expertise.
Let us help you take the next step. Reach out to schedule your personalized estate planning consultation today and feel confident knowing your digital life is protected.