Your Digital Afterlife: Protecting Passwords, Accounts, and Assets Preparing an estate plan is one of those tasks many people put off, but it can make all the difference for the family left behind. Lisa Jibson, Owner and CEO of A Matter of Life and Death and a Certified Executor Advisor (CEA), helps guide individuals through the often-overlooked steps of estate planning, both big and small. She says many people are surprised by what they don’t know. “Some assume that living common-law automatically entitles them to their partner’s benefits,” Lisa explains. “But if there’s a previous marriage that was never officially dissolved, the situation can become complicated. Others think they don’t have enough assets to warrant a will, or they don’t realize they can pre-pay their funeral at today’s prices. Even simple things, like being able to access a bank account, can cause problems if authorization isn’t in place.” One of the surprises Lisa has encountered is how differently banks and credit unions handle estate accounts. “Some institutions make you pay for bank drafts to cover bills, while others will print cheques and allow the executor to manage the account more independently. Each bank is different, so I encourage individuals to discuss this with their existing bank in advance. That way, their estate trustee is aware of the procedures and can avoid unnecessary delays and frustration.” Another area that has grown increasingly important is the digital side of estate planning. “Everything requires a password,” Lisa says. “If your family doesn’t have access
to your phone or email, shutting down accounts becomes nearly impossible. Uncancelled subscriptions tied to a credit card can keep draining money from the estate, and without a plan, social media accounts can remain active long after someone has passed.” Keeping this information secure is equally critical. Lisa suggests using secure password managers or keeping a written list with your will in a safe place, such as a home safe, safety deposit box, or with your lawyer. “Most utilities and companies allow you to set up a PIN or secret phrase. Keep that list separate from your passwords so no one can misuse the information before it’s needed,” she adds. For some families, appointing a professional estate trustee can prevent unnecessary conflict. “Death can bring out the worst in families,” Lisa notes. “Hiring a professional removes the burden from children or relatives and ensures that all paperwork, taxes, and accounts are handled properly. It also lets families focus on grieving rather than fighting.” The most important step, Lisa emphasizes, is to talk about your wishes. “Have the hard conversations while you’re alive and well. Decide on who should handle your estate, make plans for pets or minor children, and clearly outline funeral or celebration of life wishes. Most importantly, ensure you have a will—don’t die intestate.” For Lisa, helping people prepare brings deep satisfaction. “I love seeing people relax once their estate plan is in place. They can get back to enjoying life, knowing everything is taken care of.”
When your path leads to pre-planning, stop by to meet our caring and professional individuals!
Allan Hughson Owner, Licensed Funeral Director
Dave Gifford Licensed Funeral Director
Ali (Hughson) Harris Licensed Funeral Pre-Planner
Matt Hughson Licensed Funeral Director
Caylie Grech Licensed Funeral Director
(519) 631-0850 45 Elgin Street, St. Thomas www.williamsfuneralhomeltd.com
To advertise here contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com
Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • October 2025 Page 9
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs