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Gather Passwords and Account Access
Secure Home & Dependents
Begin gathering passwords and login credentials for key accounts and devices. This includes email, financial accounts, social media, phone/computer access, and cloud storage. Check for password managers (like LastPass, 1Password, or built-in browser tools), written lists, or stored notes on phones, tablets, or computers. If access is blocked, be prepared to contact service providers with proof of death and legal authority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Digital
How do I find passwords if the deceased used a password manager?
Check for apps like 1Password, LastPass, Bitwarden, or Dashlane on their phone or computer. If you know the master password, you can access all stored credentials. If not, most password managers offer a family emergency access or legacy contact feature. Contact the password manager's support team with a death certificate—some will grant executor access after identity verification.
How can I find passwords saved in web browsers?
In Chrome, go to Settings > Passwords (or chrome://password-manager). In Safari, go to Settings > Passwords on a Mac, or Settings > Passwords on an iPhone. In Firefox, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Saved Logins. You will need the device's login password to view saved passwords. Export them to a secure file before resetting any device.
Can I use biometric access (fingerprint or face) on the deceased's phone?
Biometric authentication (Face ID, fingerprint) will not work after death due to changes in skin conductivity and facial features. Attempt access as soon as possible if you know the numeric passcode. If the phone locks, Apple requires a court order to unlock an iPhone. Android devices may be unlocked through the linked Google account. Acting quickly—within hours—is critical before the device auto-locks.
How do I handle two-factor authentication on the deceased's accounts?
If the deceased's phone is accessible, you can receive SMS codes and use authenticator apps (Google Authenticator, Authy) for 2FA. If the phone is locked, contact the service provider with a death certificate to request 2FA removal. Some services accept backup codes—check for a printed or saved list. This process can take 1-4 weeks per account, so start with the most critical accounts first.
Process
What if I cannot find any passwords at all?
Start with the email account—if you can access that, you can reset passwords for most other services. Contact the deceased's phone carrier to access voicemail. For financial accounts, visit the institution in person with a death certificate and Letters Testamentary. For Apple or Google accounts, use their formal deceased-user access process (Apple Digital Legacy, Google Inactive Account Manager). An estate attorney can issue legal demands if institutions refuse access.