Social Media and Email
How do I access a deceased person's email account?
Short answer
Start with the provider's official estate process — each has one. Google, Microsoft/Outlook, Yahoo, and Apple each have different processes. Some provide access to content with a death certificate and relationship proof. Others require a court order. Do not attempt to access…
What this usually means
Start with the provider's official estate process — each has one. Google, Microsoft/Outlook, Yahoo, and Apple each have different processes. Some provide access to content with a death certificate and relationship proof. Others require a court order. Do not attempt to access accounts by guessing passwords — this can be illegal under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, even for family members.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county phone numbers for coroner, vital records, and local offices.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.