We live in an era of technology, and, as a result, more and more of our belongings, possessions, and safekeepings are taking the “digital” form. Why, then, are so many people forgetting to include their “digital assets” as part of their estate planning in Florida?
What are some exampls of digital assets?
- Electronically stored files on computers, laptops, tablets, smart phones, back-up drives, the cloud, and similar devices that may contain sensitive documents and important information.
- Online access to your bank accounts for matters such as checking account balances, paying bills, receipt of monthly disbursements, such as Social Security and pensions, or verifyingwire transfers and similar items.
- Online access to your brokerage and financial assets for determining values and amounts,downloading statements and tax information, making trades, and verifying receipts.
- Your email accounts, including inbox, outbox, and organized folders.
The importance of accounting for your “digital estate” in Florida in significant. Though the trend is proving slow to catch on, West Palm Beach probate litigation attorneys and Florida estate planners are beginning to see it more and more frequently. People are beginning to appoint digital executors of an estate in addition to a typical executor of the will. One crucial tip to remember, though, is that your digital executor needs to be both trustworthy andtech savvy, at least enough to be able to follow through with your instructions.
Have you had any personal experience with planning or administering a digital estate in Florida? If so, leave a comment below!
See http://www.pankauskilawfirm.com/ for videos and information on Wills in Florida, Florida Probate Law, Estate Planning, and Estate Administration in Florida.