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Discover what to include in a digital will template, from passwords to crypto, and why it matters for your digital legacy. Stay secure, stay prepared.
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Aug 5, 2025 07:58 PM
In today’s digital world, our online presence often outlives us. From photos in cloud storage to cryptocurrency wallets, these assets must be protected. A digital will template can be your go-to guide to make sure nothing is left behind or locked forever. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of what to include - and why it matters.
Personal Identification Information
Your digital will should begin with your full legal name, date of birth, and contact details. These ensure the document is uniquely tied to you and distinguishable from others with similar names.
It's wise to add a scanned ID copy or mention where physical IDs are stored. This verification can prevent disputes later and accelerate authentication.
Digital Executors and Beneficiaries
You’ll need to name someone who can carry out your digital will instructions - a digital executor. This person should be tech-savvy and trustworthy.
Add each beneficiary's name, relationship, and contact details. For better clarity, state what each person should receive. Consider assigning backup executors in case your primary is unavailable.
Passwords and Login Credentials
From email to Netflix, our lives are behind logins. But sharing these safely is crucial.
You can:
- Use a password manager and mention access instructions.
- Store passwords in encrypted files with specific delivery directions.
- Share partial credentials that only trusted beneficiaries can decode.
Email Accounts
Your email is the gatekeeper to most of your accounts. It’s essential to include:
- Login information
- Recovery questions or backup methods
- Instructions on whether to delete or archive data
Be sure to specify which emails are personal vs. business. Leaving this vague can delay estate settlements.
Social Media Accounts
Social media accounts can be memorialized or deleted. Each platform has different policies.
Include for each:
- Username and login
- What action to take: memorialize, delete, transfer
- Any legacy contact if already assigned (e.g., Facebook allows it)
Creating a table can help organize these instructions more clearly.
Cloud Storage and Digital Files
Cloud services like Google Drive or iCloud often contain personal files, family photos, and work documents.
State:
- Which services you use
- Folders to be accessed or deleted
- Instructions for handling sensitive files
Cryptocurrency and NFTs
Cryptocurrencies are untraceable without the right keys. If lost, they're gone forever.
In your digital will:
- Mention wallets used (hardware or software)
- Include public and private keys
- Explain how to transfer or liquidate assets
Also list backup seed phrases separately and securely. Cipherwill allows for secure key storage with dual encryption - something to consider.
Online Banking and Payment Services
Banking has moved online, making these accounts a critical part of digital inheritance.
Include:
- Bank names and login credentials
- Account types and balances
- Instructions for closing, transferring, or retaining funds
Don't forget digital payment platforms like PayPal, Paytm, or Venmo.
Subscription Services
You don’t want your family to keep paying for things like Netflix, Dropbox, or dating apps.
List:
- Active subscriptions
- Billing dates and methods
- Cancellation steps
It’s helpful to bundle these into a single table for quick action.
Digital Intellectual Property
Digital creations like blogs, eBooks, courses, YouTube channels, or domain names have long-term value.
In your will:
- List each asset with URL or ID
- Mention ownership status (registered or shared)
- Provide transfer instructions, especially for monetized content
This helps maintain your legacy or pass on passive income sources.
Health and Insurance Records
Storing medical and insurance documents digitally makes access faster for family and doctors.
Include:
- Health insurance provider and ID
- Critical health directives (DNR, organ donor)
- Life insurance policies and claim instructions
Many users store this within platforms like Cipherwill, which support encrypted document uploads.
Final Messages or Letters
This section adds humanity to your will. Leave:
- Personal goodbye messages
- Video notes or audio recordings
- Written letters to family and friends
These can be pre-set to deliver on death verification. Make sure they’re encrypted and stored securely.
FAQs: Answering Your Questions About Digital Will Templates
1. What is a digital will template?
It’s a structured document to help organize and transfer your digital assets, accounts, and wishes after you pass away.
2. Is a digital will legally binding?
Depends on your country or state. You can use a digital will alongside a legal will for added coverage.
3. Can I write my own digital will?
Yes, using a guided template or platform like Cipherwill ensures you don’t miss anything critical.
4. What happens if I don't include passwords?
Beneficiaries may not be able to access your assets. Platforms could delete accounts after inactivity.
5. How often should I update it?
At least once a year or whenever major life changes occur - like new assets or relationships.
6. How do I store my digital will securely?
Use encrypted services like Cipherwill or keep an offline encrypted copy with access instructions.
7. Can I include personal messages for loved ones?
Absolutely. Final letters or media messages can offer closure and love beyond your lifetime.
8. Should I tell someone about my digital will?
Yes. Inform at least one trusted person or your executor so they know where and how to access it.
9. Can I include business accounts in my digital will?
Definitely. Business emails, social accounts, and revenue streams must be managed or passed on.
10. What if I forget some accounts?
Cipherwill and similar tools can help you audit your digital footprint and remind you of overlooked assets.
Conclusion
A digital will template isn’t just a tech checklist - it’s your voice, security, and legacy. Tools like Cipherwill simplify the process by offering encrypted storage, beneficiary access, and time-release messages. Whether you’re protecting crypto, canceling Spotify, or saying goodbye, it starts with being prepared.
References:
bitcoins or will they be lost forever?