Digital Legacy Checklist: What to Include in Your Digital Vault
Your digital life is bigger than you think—photos, emails, social accounts, even access to your devices. When the time comes, how can you make sure the right people have access to the right things, without leaving them overwhelmed? GoodTrust’s Digital Vault is designed to help you securely organize and store essential digital information for your loved ones. But what exactly should you include in the Vault—and what should you leave out?
This checklist breaks down the four key categories of the GoodTrust Vault and offers guidance on what belongs, what doesn’t, and how to maintain an organized and effective digital legacy.
What to Include in Your GoodTrust Vault
1. Online Accounts
The average person has over 100 online accounts. Storing the login information and access instructions for your most important ones can prevent a lot of confusion and ensure your wishes are honored. Include:
Email accounts (Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo, etc.)
Social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter/X)
Banking and investment platforms (traditional banks, PayPal, Venmo, crypto wallets)
Subscription services (Netflix, Spotify, Amazon Prime)
Cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud)
Health portals or insurance logins
Tip: Only store details for accounts that someone may need to access or close on your behalf. Skip the ones that don’t matter in the long run.
2. Device Access
If your devices are locked, they can be virtually impossible to access without the right information. Consider adding:
Access information for phones, tablets, and computers
Two-factor authentication details or backup codes
Instructions for accessing biometrically locked devices (Face ID, fingerprint)
This ensures your Trusted Contacts can locate important files, messages, or even photos that may be stored locally on your devices.
3. Important Documents
Think of this section as a secure digital filing cabinet for the documents that matter most. Upload:
Legal documents
Insurance policies (life, health, property)
Property deeds, vehicle titles, or lease agreements
Birth, marriage, or death certificates
Passport
Digital copies can be incredibly helpful during emergencies or estate settlements.
4. Trusted Contacts
Assigning Trusted Contacts is one of the most powerful features of the GoodTrust Vault. These are the individuals you trust to access and manage specific parts of your digital legacy.
Designate who can access which files and accounts
Decide when they will have access to these files and accounts
Assign Legacy Contact - Trusted contact that will inherit your GoodTrust Account when you pass away
Make sure to let your Trusted Contacts know they’ve been added. A conversation now can avoid confusion later.
What Not to Include in Your Vault
While the Vault is secure, it’s not the best place for everything. Avoid storing:
Full credit card or debit card numbers
Highly sensitive or frequently changing passwords
Duplicate or outdated documents that clutter your archive
Anything illegal or untraceable
Keep the Vault focused on quality over quantity. The goal is clarity, not overwhelm.
Tips for Keeping Your Vault Organized
Use clear, descriptive file names (e.g., "2022_Will.pdf" or "Jane_HealthProxy.docx")
Review and update contents at least once a year or after any major life change
Regularly check that your Trusted Contacts are current and aware of their role
Stick to the essentials—you don’t need to upload everything, just what matters most
Start Building Your Vault Today
Preparing your digital legacy is one of the most meaningful gifts you can leave behind. By taking a few simple steps today, you can make life easier for your loved ones tomorrow. The GoodTrust Vault gives you peace of mind that everything important is in one secure place—and that the right people will have access when they need it most.