Google is a common proprietor of our correspondence, documents and projects through tools like Gmail, Docs and Slides. So what happens to all this data once someone passes away?
Thankfully, Google has offered a solution within their settings where users can assign a legacy contact, who will receive a list of data chosen to be shared along with a link to download it. A legacy contact can be assigned through your own settings in just a few steps.
- Sign in to your Google account.
- Go to Google Account Settings.
- In the sidebar, click Data & Privacy.
- Choose More Options.
- Select Make a plan for your digital legacy.
- Choose an inactivity period before your account is considered dormant.
- Select who you want as legacy contact and what you want them to be able to access.
These simple, proactive steps can go a long way towards ensuring your data is safely procured and spare your loved ones unnecessary frustration. Along with planning your estate, you can feel reassured knowing all your memories and files are delegated to the necessary recipients.
Blessings,
Jack E. Stephens, J.D., LL.M