Greetings, fellow adventurers in the journey of life! I’m Connie Aschenbrenner, an estate planning attorney in Alaska, and today, let’s embark on a quest to safeguard an often overlooked aspect of our legacy – our digital assets. Whether you’re a middle-aged couple navigating the peak of your earning years, a seasoned individual enjoying your golden days, or someone in the sandwich generation juggling family responsibilities, ensuring the protection of your digital footprint is essential.
Setting the Digital Stage:
Picture this – a world where memories, documents, and connections are woven into the digital fabric of our lives. From sentimental emails to cherished photos and even cryptocurrency holdings, our digital assets have become integral components of our legacy.
The Quest for Protection:
- Taking Inventory of Your Digital Kingdom:
Just as you would catalog your tangible assets, begin by taking inventory of your digital kingdom. Identify your online accounts, financial platforms, and any other digital spaces where valuable assets reside.
- Crafting the Digital Treasure Map:
Your estate plan is the treasure map that guides your loved ones through the complexities of your digital realm. Clearly outline your wishes regarding the distribution or management of your digital assets, appointing a digital executor who can navigate this unique landscape.
- Guarding the Gates with Password Management:
Access to digital assets often hinges on passwords. Ensure your digital executor has the keys to the kingdom by storing passwords securely and updating them regularly. Consider using password management tools for an added layer of protection.
Navigating the Technological Terrain:
- Understanding Terms of Service Agreements:
Different online platforms have varied policies on digital asset access after one’s passing. Familiarize yourself with the terms of service agreements of your accounts and adjust your estate plan accordingly.
- Embracing the Cloud for Safekeeping:
Cloud storage can be a secure haven for your digital treasures. Include details about your cloud storage accounts in your estate plan, providing your loved ones with a centralized and accessible repository.
Your Next Steps:
As you embark on this digital quest, I invite you to join me on a journey of knowledge and empowerment. Register for our upcoming workshop where we’ll delve into the intricacies of protecting your digital legacy. Together, let’s ensure that your unique story, told through bytes and pixels, is preserved and passed on to the generations that follow.
In the tapestry of time, your digital legacy deserves a place of honor. Let’s safeguard it together.
Warm regards,
Connie Aschenbrenner
Estate Planning Attorney, Alaska
