Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do with a Loved One’s Facebook Account After They Pass Away

Park Memorial • July 24, 2025

If Your Loved One is Still Alive and Wants You to Manage Their Account Later:

  1. Have them log in to their Facebook account
  2. Click the menu (top right corner) and go to Settings & Privacy → Settings
  3. Scroll down and click Memorialization Settings
  4. Under “Choose Legacy Contact”, have them type your name and select you
  5. Optional: Check the box to allow you to download a copy of their posts and photos later. 
  6. Click Save


This means you’ll be in charge of their account if something ever happens. 

If Your Loved One Has Already Passed Away:

You cannot log in to their account, even if you know their password, as this contravenes Facebook’s security regulations. Instead, follow these steps:


Step 1: Gather Documents 


You will need: 


  • A death certificate, obituary, or memorial service program. 
  • The link to their Facebook profile (copy it from the browser bar). 
  • If possible, proof of your relationship (like a marriage certificate or executor documents). 


Shape 


Step 2: Request to Memorialize the Account 


1. Go to this Facebook form: www.facebook.com/help/contact/228813257197480 

2. Fill in: 


  • Your full name and contact info. 
  • Their full name. 
  • Date they passed. 
  • Link to their profile.
  • Upload a death certificate or similar proof.
  • Choose what you want: memorialize the account, close it, or request info.


3. Click Submit.

What Happens After the Account is Memorialized

  • Their profile will say “Remembering [Name]” at the top. 
  • No one can log in to the account anymore, but stories and memories can still be posted by their friends. 
  • The posts and photos stay on Facebook (unless the account is deleted). 
  • If they chose a Legacy Contact (possibly you), you can: 

- Post a tribute. 

- Change the profile and cover photos. 

- Accept friend requests. 

- Request account deletion, if needed.


Here is an optional document templates you can download, fill out, and upload as proof: 


Facebook Memorialization Request Letter – Download 


You can fill in: 

  • The deceased’s name and date of passing 
  • Your relationship to them 
  • The link to their Facebook profile 
  • Your name and contact information
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