We now live in a digital world where we conduct many, if not all, of your financial affairs over the Internet. And we guard against others getting into our Internet accounts with usernames and passwords. We can even use passwords to keep others from accessing our cell phones, tablets and computers.
If you are like most people, you have had to change passwords on some accounts for one reason or another. The result is that you don’t have just one password; you have several. In fact, security specialists recommend against using the same password for all online accounts for the obvious reason that if one account is compromised, all others could be hacked as well.
Now consider the problems that will arise if you become incapacitated or, worse yet, pass away. How are your family members or executor going to help manage your affairs?
According to a recent survey only about 45% of Internet users have created an up-to-date list of usernames and passwords for all their online accounts. This is very important, as not all companies will provide a family member or personal representative with access to a decedent’s accounts. Such situations often prove to be extremely time-consuming and problematic.
If you haven’t already done so, we strongly recommend organizing your usernames and passwords as soon as possible, so that your trusted family member, caregiver, trustee or executor can readily access important online accounts if need be. Keep the list in a safe place known and accessible by those individuals you wish to have access to the information.
For each password included on the list, also include the username, device, website login address, and the “secret” security questions/answers, if any, for the account. If you have questions, contact the Experts at Henssler Financial:
- Experts Request Form
- Email: experts@henssler.com
- Phone: 770-429-9166.
Disclosures
This article is meant to provide valuable background information on particular investments, NOT a recommendation to buy. The investments referenced within this article may currently be traded by Henssler Financial. All material presented is compiled from sources believed to be reliable and current, but accuracy cannot be guaranteed. The contents are intended for general information purposes only. Information provided should not be the sole basis in making any decisions and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified professional, such as a tax consultant, insurance adviser or attorney. Although this material is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information with respect to the subject matter, it may not apply in all situations. Readers are urged to consult with their adviser concerning specific situations and questions. This is not to be construed as an offer to buy or sell any financial instruments. It is not our intention to state, indicate or imply in any manner that current or past results are indicative of future profitability or expectations. As with all investments, there are associated inherent risks. Please obtain and review all financial material carefully before investing. Henssler is not licensed to offer or sell insurance products, and this overview is not to be construed as an offer to purchase any insurance products.
