How can my family access my OpenAI / ChatGPT account after I die?

The process typically involves contacting OpenAI / ChatGPT with a death certificate and proof of relationship. Our step-by-step guide walks you through the exact procedure.

🤖 AI Assets & Subscriptions

What Happens to Your OpenAI / ChatGPT Account When You Die

Cancel API keys immediatelyExport conversations

OpenAI API keys can run up significant charges if left active. Cancel all API keys at platform.openai.com immediately.

Quick Facts

API keys

Cancel immediately — charges accrue

ChatGPT Plus

$20/mo subscription

Custom GPTs

May generate revenue

Step-by-Step Guide

Cancel ChatGPT Plus or Team subscription

Cancel the ChatGPT Plus ($20/mo) or Team subscription through Settings → Subscription to stop recurring charges.

Export conversation history

Go to Settings → Data Controls → Export to download all conversation history before closing the account.

Cancel ALL API keys immediately

Go to platform.openai.com → API Keys and delete every active key. Usage-based billing can accumulate significant charges.

Document Custom GPTs and GPT Store revenue

List all Custom GPTs built and any GPT Store revenue being generated. These may have ongoing commercial value.

Document Now Checklist

Account email
Subscription tier (Plus/Team/Enterprise)
Monthly API spend
Custom GPTs built
GPT Store revenue

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Last verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with OpenAI / ChatGPT. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Related Guides

AI Subscriptions — Cancel These

Some AI platforms delete all generated content when the account is closed. Download images, conversations, and files BEFORE cancelling.

Custom GPTs & OpenAI Assets

Log into ChatGPT and check GPT Builder. If any custom GPTs are monetized through the GPT Store, check the pending revenue balance.

AI-Generated Content — What You Own

Current US copyright law does not protect purely AI-generated content. However, AI content used in a business has real commercial value regardless of copyright status.

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