What Happens to Your SSL Certificate Account When You Die
Quick Facts
Expiry
Site shows security warnings
Renewal
Auto-renew if possible
Provider
Document certificate authority
Step-by-Step Guide
Note the certificate provider and expiry
Document which certificate authority (CA) issued the SSL cert, when it expires, and whether it auto-renews (e.g., Let\'s Encrypt auto-renews).
Check auto-renewal status
If using Let\'s Encrypt or a managed SSL service, verify auto-renewal is working. If manually installed, note the renewal process.
Document where the cert is installed
Note which server, CDN, or hosting provider the SSL certificate is installed on. Include the domain(s) it covers.
Backup private key location
Document where the private key is stored (server path, hosting dashboard, etc.). The private key is needed for certificate reinstallation.
Document Now Checklist
- Domain(s) covered by this certificate
- Certificate authority (issuer)
- Expiry date and auto-renew status
- Where the certificate is installed
- Private key storage location
Save this to your vault
When you document your accounts in Passed Plan, your family gets a personalized action plan — with only the guides that apply to them, in the right order, with your notes attached.
Start your vault — free for 30 daysLast verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with SSL Certificate. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Related Guides
WordPress.com
Document every WordPress.com site URL, admin login email, and whether each has a premium plan. Add a separate vault entry for each site if you manage multiple.
WordPress.org (Self-Hosted)
Document every self-hosted WordPress site URL, hosting provider, wp-admin login, and database credentials. Add a separate vault entry for each site.
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.
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