With the ever-growing prevalence of social media, it is becoming important for people to create plans for their virtual afterlife. A recent article discusses four steps that people should take in order to make sure that their estate plan covers virtual assets. Step One: Make a List In order to make a digital estate plan, it is important to know exactly what assets you are planning for. To start the process of digital estate planning, make a list of all of your digital accounts. This includes not only social media, but also include email accounts, investment and bank accounts, and gaming accounts. Your list should include your username, password, and security question answers. Step Two: Put Someone in Charge Step two is to designate the person you would like to be in charge of your digital assets after your death. In your will, designate that your administrator should find that list and give it to the person in charge. Be sure to include instructions for what you would like the person to do with your accounts. Step Three: Will Power It is also important to include your digital assets in your will. According to a McAffee survey, “on average Americans believe the financial and emotional value of their digital assets are worth about $55,000.” Through your will, you can pass on online information of value. Step Four: Hope for the Best As is often the case with estate planning, a person can do everything “right” and still not reach the desired outcome. This is especially true with digital assets, as the law surrounding such assets is relatively unclear. For assistance in dealing with your digital assets, call us at 818.956.9200.