Planning Your Digital Legacy

Last updated: 29th June 2026

Many parts of our lives are now digital - from photos and videos on our phones, to email accounts, social media, online banking, subscriptions and cloud storage. Thinking about what you would like to happen to these can make things easier for the people important to you.

You do not have to do everything at once. This page is a simple starting point to help you think about your digital life, record your wishes, and talk to someone you trust.

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What is a Digital Legacy?

Photos & videos

mobile phones, tablets & computers

email accounts

social media accounts

cloud storage platforms

online banking, bills, and financial accounts

online shopping accounts

streaming services & subscriptions

gaming accounts

personal blogs

websites

Why it matters

Planning ahead can help loved ones:

Know what you would like to happen to your accounts.

Access important memories, such as photos or videos.

Close accounts or subscriptions more easily.

Protect private information.

Avoid uncertainty at an already difficult time.

Preserve the parts of your story that matter to you.

Get started by...

Digital legacy can be one part of planning for your future care. Advance Care Planning is about thinking, talking and writing down what matters to you, including your wishes and preferences for the future. This can include practical, personal and emotional things — including what you would like to happen to your digital life.

Make a checklist of things to think about

Your Devices

Think about phones, tablets, laptops and computers. Are they password protected? Would someone you trust know how to access what they need?

Your photos and videos

Where are your important photos and videos stored? Are they on your phone, computer, memory stick or in cloud storage? Would you like certain people to have copies?

Your social media accounts

Different platforms have different options. Some may allow you to choose a legacy contact, memorialise an account, deactivate it or delete it.

Your email and cloud storage

Emails and cloud storage can hold personal memories, practical documents and private information. Think about what you would want someone to access — and what you would prefer to stay private.

Your online finances and subscriptions

Consider online banking, bills, insurance, shopping accounts, streaming services and subscriptions. Keeping a list can save loved ones time and stress.

Your wishes

You may want to write down what you would like to happen, where key information is stored, and who you trust to help.

Here are some links you might find useful

Digital Legacy Association

Free resources, leaflets and guidance for the public and professionals. Digital Legacy Association - Home describes the organisation as providing resources for both professionals and the general public.

Find out more

MyWishes

A free tool that includes Advance Care Plan and Digital Legacy planning features.

Find out more

HospiceUK: Advance care planning

Clear information about planning ahead and recording wishes

Find out more

NHS England: Universal Principles for Advance Care Planning

High-level Advance Care Planning principles for England

Find out more