What Happens to Your DreamHost Account When You Die
Quick Facts
Billing
Hosting plan charges
Sites
Go offline on non-payment
Transfer
Panel backup and migration
Step-by-Step Guide
Download site backups
DreamHost Panel → Manage Websites → Backups. Download full backups of all hosted sites. Also connect via SFTP to download all files directly.
Export databases
Panel → MySQL Databases → phpMyAdmin. Export each database as SQL. DreamHost also offers one-click backups for WordPress sites.
Transfer domains if registered with DreamHost
If domains are registered through DreamHost, unlock them and get auth codes. Domains → Registrations → Transfer Away.
Cancel hosting or contact support
Cancel hosting plans to stop charges. Contact DreamHost support for estate account closure procedures.
Document Now Checklist
- DreamHost account email and Panel login
- List all hosted websites
- Hosting plan details and renewal date
- List domains registered with DreamHost
- Note any email accounts hosted on DreamHost
Last verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with DreamHost. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Related Guides
GitHub
GitHub has no formal memorialization process. Private repos become permanently inaccessible without account credentials. Add a trusted contact as org owner for any organizations you manage.
Vercel
Add a trusted person to your Vercel team with Admin role. This ensures deployments continue.
Netlify
Add a trusted person to your Netlify team. Team → Members → Invite.
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