Closing Out Social Media

From Facebook to LinkedIn, here are the steps to shutting an account

Closing the social media accounts of a deceased person is a sensitive and often legally regulated process. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Before you can begin the process of closing their social media accounts, you need to have official confirmation of the person's death, such as a death certificate.

  2. Gather Account Information: You will need access to the deceased person's social media accounts, including usernames, email addresses, and passwords. If you don't have this information, you may need to contact the social media platforms for assistance.

  3. Contact Social Media Platforms:

    • Facebook: Facebook allows you to request the removal of a deceased person's account or memorialize it. To request removal, you can use this form.

    • X (Twitter): X will work with a person authorized to act on behalf of the deceased's estate or with a verified immediate family member to deactivate the account. Use this form to initiate the process.

    • Instagram: Instagram allows for memorialization or removal of accounts of deceased users. Use this form to request assistance.

    • LinkedIn: LinkedIn allows for the closure of a deceased member's account. Visit the LinkedIn Help Center to request assistance.

    • For other social media platforms, you may need to check their help or support sections for guidance on how to report a deceased user and request the account's closure.

  4. Provide Required Documentation: In most cases, you will need to provide documentation to prove your authority to request the closure of the account, such as a death certificate, proof of your relationship to the deceased, or documentation showing you are the executor of their estate.

  5. Follow Platform-Specific Instructions: Each social media platform may have specific procedures for handling accounts of deceased users. Be sure to follow their instructions carefully and provide all required information.

  6. Follow-Up: After submitting a request, follow up with the social media platforms to ensure they are processing the request. It may take some time for them to respond and take action.

Remember that the process can vary by platform and location, and it may take some time for the accounts to be closed or memorialized. Be patient and prepared to provide the necessary documentation to fulfill the platform's requirements for account closure