Approved Inheritance Cash, Inc.
39 East Union Street, Pasadena, CA 91103
+1 877 252 6544

Digital Assets in Probate: What Happens to Your Online Life After Death?

Most people think of probate as dealing with houses, cars, and bank accounts. But in today’s world, there’s another category of assets families must consider: digital property. From cryptocurrency wallets to Instagram accounts, our online lives often hold real value—both financial and sentimental.

What Counts as a Digital Asset?
  • Social Media Accounts (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok)
  • Cryptocurrency Wallets (Bitcoin, Ethereum)
  • Domain Names and Websites
  • Cloud Storage Files (photos, documents, videos)
  • Email Accounts
  • Gaming Assets (skins, NFTs, in-game currencies)

Some of these have monetary value, while others carry emotional worth, like photos or family videos.

The Challenges of Digital Inheritance

Unlike physical assets, digital property can be difficult to access. Passwords, two-factor authentication, and privacy laws can lock heirs out. Without planning, even valuable accounts may be lost forever.

Cryptocurrency: A Unique Problem

Crypto wallets are notoriously secure. If heirs don’t have the private key, the funds are irretrievable. There are stories of millions of dollars in Bitcoin sitting untouched because the owner passed away without sharing access.

Steps to Secure Digital Assets
  1. Create a Digital Inventory – List important accounts, websites, and assets.
  2. Use a Password Manager – Store login details in a safe, shareable way.
  3. Include Digital Assets in Estate Plans – Wills and trusts can specify how online property should be handled.
  4. Nominate a Digital Executor – Some states allow this role specifically for managing digital property.
The Takeaway

As our lives move further online, digital inheritance is becoming just as important as physical estate planning. Families who prepare now will save future generations from stress, confusion, and the permanent loss of treasured or valuable online assets.

Share

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *