Should I put my passwords in my will?

No. A will becomes a public document after probate, so passwords or keys in it would be exposed. Keep them in a separate, secure record and refer to its existence — not its contents — in your planning.

What happens to digital assets when you die?

Q: What happens to digital assets when you die?

Digital assets don't automatically pass under a will, and access depends on each platform's terms. Plan by listing them, recording secure access separately, and using legacy or memorialisation tools. Never put passwords in your will, as it becomes public after probate.

England & Wales · After Death · Digital

Quick answer

Digital assets — online accounts, photos, email, social media, cryptocurrency, domains and loyalty points — don't automatically pass under a will, and access is governed by each platform's terms. Plan ahead: list your digital assets, record how they're accessed securely, and use platforms' legacy/memorialisation tools. Never put passwords in your will (it becomes public after probate); use a separate secure record instead.

Detailed explanation

Digital legacy is the fastest-growing gap in estate planning.

Inventory: list accounts, photos, crypto, domains, subscriptions and points.
Access: keep a secure, separate record of how to access them — not in the will.
Use platform tools: legacy contacts and memorialisation settings on major services.
Crypto: without the keys, the asset is lost — document access securely.
Your will can name who should deal with your digital estate.

Example scenario

Mia lists her digital life — cloud photos, two email accounts, a crypto wallet and several subscriptions — and stores access details with a secure password manager, naming a digital executor in her will. Her family can find and manage everything, and her crypto isn't lost.

What happens next?

Complete the questionnaireA few guided questions about you, your family and your wishes.
Human reviewYour answers are checked by the ClearLegacy editorial team for completeness.
Receive your documentsYour will and supporting paperwork are produced, ready to print.
Sign correctlyClear instructions on signing and witnessing so the will is legally valid.
Protect your familyYour wishes are recorded and your loved ones are spared the intestacy default.

Sources

GOV.UK — Making a will
Information Commissioner's Office — guidance on data after death
Platform legacy/memorialisation tools (Apple, Google, Meta)

Reviewed by: ClearLegacy editorial team
Last reviewed: June 2026
Next review: December 2026
Jurisdiction: England & Wales

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What happens to digital assets when you die?

Detailed explanation

Sources

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