Evan Carroll Digital Asset Inventory

Audit online accounts, digital media, and physical devices using Evan Carroll digital asset inventory framework. Build a clear estate record in 50 minutes.

5 time blocks, 50 minutes in total.

Time blocks

Hardware and Storage Inventory: 10 min
Record phones, laptops, external drives, and local backups
Online Account Audit: 15 min
Log email, banking, utility, and subscription accounts
Media and Content Cataloging: 10 min
Identify photos, domain names, and personal intellectual property
Legacy Instructions Assignment: 10 min
Note whether to transfer, archive, or delete each asset
Secure Vaulting and Key Contact Notification: 5 min
Save the file safely and inform your designated digital executor

About this routine

Evan Carroll digital asset inventory provides a structured method for cataloging online assets, accounts, and hardware before unexpected events occur. Co-author of Your Digital Afterlife, Carroll emphasizes that digital estate planning begins with a thorough audit rather than relying solely on software tools.

This 50 minute session walks through five practical steps. You begin by listing physical devices and primary email addresses, move to online accounts and digital intellectual property, and finish by attaching clear directions for your digital executor.

By keeping actual credentials inside a password manager and maintaining a master inventory list separately, you give loved ones the guidance they need without compromising daily security.

Why this routine works

Creates a complete record of devices, subscriptions, and financial accounts
Prevents family members from losing access to irreplaceable digital memories
Simplifies administrative duties for your appointed digital executor
Maintains password security while clarifying access paths for loved ones

FAQ

What is Evan Carroll's digital asset inventory method?

It is a practical framework developed by digital estate expert Evan Carroll to catalog physical devices, online accounts, media files, and legacy wishes.

Should I write plain passwords in my digital inventory?

No. List account names, usernames, and associated emails in the inventory, but keep passwords inside an encrypted password manager or secure vault.

How long does a digital asset inventory take?

An initial setup session takes about 50 minutes, followed by periodic quick updates when you open new accounts.

Sources

Your Digital Afterlife: Evan Carroll and John Romano