Start with an inventory and a separate backup

Write down which services hold important photos and documents, where your independent backups are, and who should help your family request access. A cloud login is not a substitute for a succession plan. Keep irreplaceable files backed up and check that the intended person can find the instructions.

Use the provider’s own access process

Google Inactive Account Manager lets you choose what happens to eligible account data after inactivity. Review the selected data and contacts; it is not a universal transfer of sign-in credentials.

Apple Legacy Contact can provide access to eligible account data with the access key and required documentation. It excludes iCloud Keychain passwords and passkeys.

Microsoft’s guidance for accounts after a death explains that content disclosure can require formal legal process, with rules that vary by location. Do not promise automatic next-of-kin access.

For Dropbox, Box or another provider, consult its current support process. Business accounts may also depend on the organisation’s administrator and retention settings.

Leave your person clear instructions

Include document locations, account names, approved contacts and the provider settings you have configured. Keep passwords and recovery secrets separately. Shared folders can help with documents that your person is already authorised to see.

ZeroLatch can send this note after a missed check-in, reminders and your extra waiting time. It does not grant account access or replace legal documents, provider tools or backups. Use the free checklist to prepare a short, useful note.