Social media accounts have become integral to our lives, serving as tools for communication, business, and personal expression. When someone passes away, their digital presence often remains online, creating questions about what happens to these accounts and how they can be managed. Whether you’re an executor, family member, or friend, understanding how to handle social media accounts after death is essential for preserving the deceased’s legacy and ensuring privacy.
This guide provides a comprehensive, platform-by-platform approach to managing social media accounts after death, with practical steps and resources for Canadians.
Why It’s Important to Manage Social Media Accounts
- Protect Privacy: Prevent unauthorized access to the deceased’s information and photos.
- Preserve Legacy: Memorialize accounts to honor the deceased’s memory.
- Prevent Fraud: Close accounts to avoid potential identity theft or misuse.
- Streamline Estate Tasks: Addressing digital assets is a critical part of modern estate management.
Steps to Handle Social Media Accounts
1. Identify Accounts
Start by identifying all social media accounts the deceased used. Check their devices, email inbox, and financial records for subscriptions to platforms such as:
- TikTok
- Snapchat
2. Gather Documentation
Each platform requires specific documentation to manage or close an account. Commonly required items include:
- A copy of the death certificate
- Proof of your relationship to the deceased (e.g., executor documents or next-of-kin status)
- Government-issued ID
3. Decide on Memorialization or Deletion
Some platforms allow accounts to be memorialized, preserving them for friends and family. Others may only offer deletion.
4. Contact Platforms
Reach out to the relevant platform using the steps outlined below. Each company has its own policies and procedures for handling accounts after death.
Platform-by-Platform Guide
1. Facebook
Facebook offers two options for deceased users:
- Memorialization: The account is turned into a memorial page, allowing friends and family to share memories.
- Deletion: The account is permanently removed.
How to Request Changes:
- Submit a request via the Facebook Memorialization Request Form.
- Provide required documentation, such as the death certificate and proof of your authority.
Learn more at the Facebook Help Center.
2. Instagram
Instagram, owned by Facebook, also offers options for memorialization or deletion:
- Memorialization: The account remains visible but cannot be logged into or updated.
- Deletion: The account is permanently removed.
How to Request Changes:
- Visit the Instagram Memorialization Request Form.
- Submit the required documentation.
For details, visit the Instagram Help Center.
3. X (Twitter)
X does not offer memorialization. Instead, accounts can only be deactivated and deleted.
How to Request Deletion:
- Contact X Support via the X Deceased User Request Form.
- Provide a copy of the death certificate and your ID.
Learn more at the X Help Center.
4. LinkedIn
LinkedIn allows accounts to be closed upon verification of the user’s death.
How to Request Closure:
- Submit a request using the LinkedIn Account Closure Form.
- Provide the deceased’s profile URL, proof of death, and proof of your relationship.
For further guidance, visit the LinkedIn Help Center.
5. TikTok
TikTok does not currently offer a memorialization option. Accounts can be deleted upon request.
How to Request Deletion:
- Contact TikTok Support through their Contact Page.
- Provide required documents, such as the death certificate.
Visit the TikTok Support page for details.
6. Snapchat
Snapchat allows accounts to be deleted but does not offer a memorialization feature.
How to Request Deletion:
- Contact Snapchat Support via the Snapchat Support Page.
- Provide the required documents.
7. Pinterest
Pinterest allows accounts to be deactivated upon request but does not offer memorialization.
How to Request Deactivation:
- Contact Pinterest Support using the Pinterest Help Center.
- Submit proof of death and your relationship to the deceased.
Digital Legacy Management
1. Inactive Account Managers
Some platforms, such as Google, offer tools to manage accounts if they become inactive. For example:
- Google’s Inactive Account Manager: Allows users to set up trusted contacts who can access their accounts after a period of inactivity.
Visit the Google Inactive Account Manager page for more information.
2. Password Managers
If the deceased used a password manager, accessing their stored passwords can simplify managing social media and other online accounts.
3. Include Digital Assets in Estate Plans
Encourage loved ones to include social media account management instructions in their will or digital estate plan.
Tips for Executors
Document Actions:
Keep detailed records of all communications with social media platforms and account changes for the estate’s files.
Act Promptly:
Address social media accounts early in the estate settlement process to prevent unauthorized access.
Communicate with Family:
Discuss memorialization options with family members to ensure alignment with the deceased’s wishes.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Ignoring Social Media Accounts:
Leaving accounts unmanaged increases the risk of hacking or misuse.
Using Deceased’s Credentials Without Permission:
Logging into accounts without proper authorization may violate terms of service agreements.
Overlooking Lesser-Known Accounts:
Ensure all social media accounts, including less common platforms, are addressed.
Resources for Managing Social Media Accounts
- Canadian Digital Legacy Association: Guidance on managing digital assets.
- Privacy Commissioner of Canada: Information on privacy laws.
- Service Canada - What to Do When Someone Dies: General guidance for executors.
Handling social media accounts after death is an essential part of modern estate management. By understanding platform-specific policies and taking timely action, you can honor the deceased’s digital legacy while protecting their privacy.
For additional assistance, consult social media providers directly or seek advice from digital estate planning professionals.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
