Social media websites and online platforms make up much of our day-to-day online activity. We routinely generate content, engage in discussions, and build online identities on these sites.
This online activity can be a part of our legacy after death. Some websites even allow profiles to remain open to memorialize the user. However, in many cases, you may want to simply designate someone to deactivate your online accounts after your death. Here are the steps you can take for some of the most popular platforms today.
Please note: Most social media platforms will not provide the login information for deceased persons. It is very important that you include social media platform login information as part of your digital estate plan so that your digital fiduciary or loved ones can follow through with your wishes. Check out the Life File section on digital estate planning for information on how to do this safely and securely.
Facebook offers a couple of options for your account after you die.
- Have your account deleted: A loved one or the executor of your Facebook account can make the request. Detailed instructions on the steps they’d take to delete the account are here.
- Turn your account into a memorialized account. You will need to designate a legacy contact for your account in order to have this option. Detailed instructions on adding a legacy contact to your account are here. They can request memorialization of your account after your death using this form.
Instagram offers a couple of options for your account after you die.
- Have your account deleted: Verified family members may request the account be deleted. Detailed instructions on requirements and steps for doing so are here.
- Turn your account into a memorialized account. Information about memorialized accounts on Instagram can be found here.
Twitter (X)
Your digital fiduciary can request your account be deactivated using this form.
Your digital fiduciary can request your account be deactivated. More information on the process is available here.
LinkedIn offers a couple of options for your account after you die. Your digital fiduciary can ask for the account to be deleted, or to turn it into a memorialized account. More information is available here.