In this day and age, we live more of our lives online than ever before, from banking and sharing memories to even building businesses and storing important documents in the cloud. However, few of us stop to think about what happens to all that when we’re gone.
Digital accounts don’t just disappear on their own, and sadly, without proper planning, they can become inaccessible or vulnerable. Understanding the steps you can take to protect your digital assets can help prepare you for the future and provide peace of mind along the way.
What can you do
Under Virginia law, digital assets are legally recognized as part of your estate, but accessing them isn’t always so simple. Without clear instructions, your family may face delays, court orders or even permanent loss of valuable or sentimental data. A well-crafted estate plan today goes beyond physical assets and financial accounts; it also includes careful consideration of your digital life. From email and social media profiles to online banking, cryptocurrency wallets and cloud storage, your digital footprint holds both personal and financial value.
To give someone the right to manage your digital accounts after your passing, you’ll need to name a digital executor in your estate plan. Virginia recognizes this role under the Revised Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act (RUFADAA), which allows you to specify who can access which accounts and what you’re allowed to do with them.
In today’s connected world, planning for your digital legacy is no longer optional. It’s an essential, responsible step toward ensuring peace of mind for you and those you care about. Taking the time to organize your digital legacy now can save your loved ones stress and uncertainty later. If you’re ready to make sure nothing gets lost or left behind. Seeking professional legal guidance can help.
