Define: Di. Et Fi.

Di. Et Fi. is short for Digital Estate Planning and refers to the process of managing and organizing one’s digital assets and online presence in the event of incapacity or death.

Di. Et Fi. is important because it allows individuals to have control over their digital assets, such as social media accounts, online banking, and email accounts, and ensures that their wishes regarding these assets are respected after their passing.

Digital assets can include social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram), email accounts (Gmail, Yahoo), online banking and investment accounts, digital photos and videos, online subscriptions (Netflix, Spotify), and any other online accounts or files that hold personal or financial value.

To plan your Di. Et Fi., you can start by creating an inventory of your digital assets, including usernames and passwords. You should also consider appointing a digital executor or including digital asset provisions in your will or estate plan. It is recommended to consult with an attorney experienced in digital estate planning to ensure your wishes are legally enforceable.

Yes, you can include instructions for your digital assets in your will. However, it is important to note that some online service providers have their own policies regarding access to and management of accounts after death. It is advisable to review the terms of service of each platform and consult with an attorney to ensure your instructions align with their policies.

Yes, you can grant someone access to your online accounts while you are alive by creating a power of attorney or using specific online tools provided by some service providers. This allows the designated person to manage your digital assets in case of incapacity.

If you don’t plan your Di. Et Fi., your digital assets may be subject to the terms of service of each online platform. Some platforms may delete or deactivate accounts after a certain period of inactivity, while others may require a court order to grant access to a deceased person’s account. Planning your Di. Et Fi. ensures that your wishes are followed and your loved ones can access and manage your digital assets appropriately.

Yes, you can include social media accounts in your Di. Et Fi. plan. You can specify whether you want your accounts to be deleted, memorialized, or transferred to a designated person. Some social media platforms also provide options for users to set their preferences for what happens to their accounts after death.

Yes, you can and should update your Di. Et Fi. plan regularly, especially if there are changes in your digital assets or online accounts. It is recommended to review and update your plan at least once a year or whenever there are significant changes in your life or online presence.

While it is not legally required to have a lawyer to plan your Di. Et Fi., consulting with an attorney who specializes in digital estate planning can provide valuable guidance and ensure that your plan is legally sound. They can help you navigate the complexities of digital asset management and ensure your wishes are properly documented and enforceable.