Digital accounts · Provider process available internationally
Google account process
Inactive Account Manager is an advance setting triggered by inactivity, not a death certificate. Without advance setup, Google handles requests concerning a deceased user's account case by case and does not promise access.
Independent educational guide. BeforeHand is not affiliated with Google. Confirm current requirements through the official source.
Applies toProlonged inactivity and post-death account requests
Support levelAutomatic when prepared
Typical timingThe advance path follows the inactivity period selected by the account owner. Google does not publish one guaranteed period for case-by-case requests without advance setup.
What to prepare
- Chosen inactivity period
- Current recovery phone and email
- Trusted contacts and their contact details
- Selected Google data categories
- Decision about eventual account deletion
Step-by-step process
- Open Google's Inactive Account Manager in the account settings.
- Choose the inactivity period and confirm how Google should contact you first.
- Select trusted contacts and limit data sharing to what each person needs.
- Review the deletion option and its consequences.
- Record the setup in the broader family continuity plan and review it periodically.
What to arrange in advance
Inactive Account Manager is the key advance-planning path. Choose contacts, data, timing, and deletion settings while the account owner can make those decisions.
Official source
Provider processes change. Use the official page below for current forms, channels, and documentation requirements.
Google Account Help — Inactive Account Manager →