Platform Access Kits
Step-by-step guides and pre-authorized documentation to help your family access Microsoft, Google, Apple, and other accounts — without lawyers or court orders.
Why This Matters
When a loved one passes, families often spend months trying to access email, photos, and important files locked behind platform security. Without proper documentation, companies like Microsoft, Google, and Apple may require court orders — costing thousands of dollars and months of delays. Our Platform Access Kits give you a head start by preparing the exact documentation each company requires.
Available Platform Kits
Microsoft
Outlook, OneDrive, Xbox, Microsoft 365
Access Checklist
- 1Gather death certificate (certified copy)
- 2Identify Microsoft account email address
- 3Note all services used (Outlook, OneDrive, Xbox, M365)
- 4Document 2FA method and backup codes
- 5Obtain proof of relationship document
- 6Submit Next of Kin request to Microsoft
- 7Allow 30-day processing period
Gmail, Google Drive, YouTube, Google Photos
Access Checklist
- 1Set up Google Inactive Account Manager (while alive!)
- 2Gather death certificate (certified copy)
- 3Identify Google account email address
- 4List all Google services used (Gmail, Drive, Photos, YouTube)
- 5Document 2FA method and backup codes
- 6Submit request through Google's deceased user process
- 7Provide proof of relationship and legal authority
- 8Allow 30–60 day processing period
Apple
iCloud, Apple ID, App Store, Apple Music
Access Checklist
- 1Set up Apple Legacy Contact (while alive!) in Settings > Apple ID
- 2Gather death certificate (certified copy)
- 3Identify Apple ID email address
- 4List all Apple services used (iCloud, Photos, Music)
- 5Document 2FA trusted devices and phone numbers
- 6Obtain Legacy Contact access key (if configured)
- 7Submit Digital Legacy request to Apple
- 8Allow processing period (varies)
Pro Tips for Account Access
Order Extra Death Certificates
Order at least 10 certified copies. Each platform request requires an original certified copy — they don't accept photocopies.
Document 2FA Methods Now
Record which devices, phone numbers, and authenticator apps are used for two-factor authentication on each account.
Set Up Legacy Contacts Today
Both Apple (Legacy Contact) and Google (Inactive Account Manager) offer built-in tools — set them up while you can.
Notarize Your Authorization Letters
While optional, notarized letters carry significantly more legal weight and can speed up the access process.