Google relies first on the Inactive Account Manager tool. If that was not configured, family members can request to close the account or download specific data under strict legal review.
You must prepare the following legal and physical documents before contacting the platform's support:
Visit the Google Support portal and search for "Submit a request regarding a deceased user's account".
Select whether you want to close the account, request funds/payments, or request data (Gmail, Drive, Photos).
Upload the Death Certificate and your Photo ID.
Provide proof of authority showing you represent the deceased's estate.
Google's legal department evaluates the request. If approved, they will email a secure link to download the selected data archives.
Google will NOT provide the account password or allow you to sign in directly. They only provide direct zip file downloads of specific data like Gmail emails, Google Drive documents, or Google Photos.
If the owner set up the Inactive Account Manager, the system will automatically notify the heirs after a period of inactivity (e.g., 3 months) without needing to contact Google support.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general informational purposes only. Policies and URLs of third-party platforms are subject to change. WealthPass is an independent digital safety vault and has no official affiliation with the service providers listed in this wiki directory.