How to Leave Passwords and Account Access to Family

Do not start with a plain-text password list

A printed list, email draft, or ordinary cloud document can expose every account at once. Start by identifying which accounts matter, what the provider permits, and who should have authority to act.

Create an account inventory

• Primary email and phone number
• Password manager and recovery method
• Banking, insurance, utilities, and subscriptions
• Cloud storage, social media, domains, and business systems
• Devices and authentication methods

Use provider recovery and legacy tools

Some services offer legacy contacts, inactive-account settings, recovery contacts, or estate procedures. Configure those features directly and document what your family should expect. Access rights are not created merely by knowing a password.

Protect two-factor authentication

• Keep backup codes encrypted
• Explain where hardware security keys are stored
• Document how a phone number or device can be recovered
• Avoid making one unavailable device the only path to every account

Test and update the plan

A trusted person should understand the process without receiving premature access. Review the inventory when you change email, phones, password managers, or key financial accounts. Consult an attorney for authority and estate questions.