When most individuals hear the words “estate planning,” they immediately think of the paperwork, asset gathering, and beneficiary selection. While extremely vital, most find it tedious and filled with legal jargons. However, there is an emotional component to estate planning. It’s not just about arranging for our loved ones’ care when we die; it’s also about how we want to be remembered.
Memories to Share
We’ve created countless memories with our loved ones throughout the course of our lives – family vacations, holiday celebrations, and significant life events. Isn’t it wonderful to be able to share some of our fondest memories and feelings with people we leave behind? Yes, you can!
What Is the Purpose of Leaving a Memorial Message?
We don’t always get the chance to say what we want in life, whether it’s telling someone how much they mean to us, expressing gratitude for something, or simply wanting to share a sentiment or a memory. Maybe your son or daughter lives far away, or you don’t get to see your siblings or grandchildren as often as you’d like.
A memorial message allows you to say your final goodbyes, console hurting loved ones, and convey a customized message to those who mean the most to you. It’s as though you’re right next to them.
Leaving a Legacy
One method to share your legacy is with a tribute film. Another way is through your digital legacy, which is your online content. This includes photos, movies, and social media posts with sentimental value that can be shared after your death.
Creating a digital legacy plan is the best approach to ensure that your digital assets can be accessed. This provides precise instructions on how to share your digital environment and with whom you can share it.
You can give personal representative/executor permission to log into your digital devices and computers in your online Will so they can access your digital accounts. Specific directions on how you want your digital accounts handled should be included.
Most social media content has died with you up until now. Companies like Google, Facebook, and Apple have recently begun to offer ways for others you care about to access, share, and enjoy your digital memories.
Facebook, for example, has a feature called Memorized Accounts that allows loved ones and friends to see a departed loved one’s posts. With Apple, you can choose a contact to maintain your iCloud content through Apple’s Digital Legacy Program. Lastly, for Google there is the Inactive Account Manager.