60% of estate planners have encountered client inquiries about digital assets.
Some 90% of estate planners anticipate an increase in client demand for advice on managing these assets.
Approximately 1 in 5 estate planners deal with digital assets on a monthly basis.
Estate planners often face challenges when attempting to access a deceased person’s online accounts. 18% of estate planners have been asked about obtaining access to such accounts, highlighting the need for comprehensive strategies to address this issue.
Digital assets encompass a wide range of items stored electronically that hold financial, personal, or sentimental value. It’s crucial to recognise and include them when planning for the distribution of an individual’s estate. Let’s explore some common types of digital assets:
C R Y P T O C U R R E N C Y
Cryptocurrency refers to digital or virtual currencies, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, that use cryptography for secure transactions. These assets hold monetary value and require specialised knowledge to manage and transfer.
N F T S ( N O N – F U N G I B L E T O K E N S ) :
NFTs represent unique digital assets, such as artwork, music, or collectibles, which are verified using blockchain technology. These assets have gained popularity and require special consideration due to their distinct characteristics.
D O M A I N N A M E S
Domain names are valuable digital assets, especially if they are associated with a well-established brand or have high traffic. They can hold significant commercial value and need to be managed appropriately during estate planning.
C O M P U T E R S O U R C E C O D E
Computer source code refers to the underlying instructions that power software applications. If the deceased person had ownership or intellectual property rights over software code, it becomes an essential digital asset to consider during estate planning.
W E B S I T E S / H I G H – V A L U E S O C I A L M E D I A A C C O U N T S
Websites and social media accounts with a substantial following or commercial potential are digital assets that require attention. They may generate income or hold sentimental value for the deceased person’s loved ones.
G A M B L I N G A C C O U N T S
With the increasing popularity of online gambling, digital assets such as gambling accounts or virtual casino items can have monetary value. It’s crucial to identify and address these assets during the estate planning process.
To find out more simply complete our form which can be found here:
LAURELO PROBATE LATEST NEWS
Welcoming Sam Hutchinson
Welcoming Sam Hutchinson to Team Laurelo We’re delighted to announce that Sam Hutchinson has joined us as our new Business Development Manager. With a wealth of experience in the industry and a genuine passion for supporting families through life’s most difficult...
Laurelo Manifesto: Putting Families First, Always
We’re more than a probate service — we’re a family. But, for many in the company, the bonds goes beyond bloodline. We’re all united by a deeper purpose: a shared commitment to care for families in a way they truly deserve while grieving. Born out of personal...
Introducing “Laurelo Lift” – Wellness Sessions for Our Team
Our continued success and growth is thanks to the support and dedication of our team. Over the past few weeks, the team have had the chance to share some of their personal stories about working with bereaved families. The team's experiences have been invaluable,...