Privacy Policy

Your privacy matters to us. This policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and the steps we take to protect it.

Last updated: June 2026 | Effective Date: June 12, 2026

1. Information We Collect

WriteTheObituary.com collects information in two ways: (a) Information You Provide: biographical details, family names, dates, contact information, and other details you enter into our obituary form; your email address and password when creating an account. (b) Information Automatically Collected: IP address, browser type, device type, operating system, pages visited, time spent on the site, and referral sources. We use cookies to track preferences and enhance user experience.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use collected information to: generate your custom obituary; provide, maintain, and improve the service; process payments; send service-related announcements; respond to your inquiries; and comply with legal obligations. We do not use your information for marketing without explicit consent. Demographic data may be analyzed in aggregate form to improve the service.

3. Data Retention & Deletion

Personal data is retained only as long as necessary to provide the service. Once you export your completed obituary, all associated draft data and input details are automatically and permanently deleted from our system within 30 days. Account information (name, email) is retained until account deletion. You may request account and data deletion at any time.

4. Data Security

We employ industry-standard security measures including HTTPS encryption, secure servers, regular security audits, and restricted access controls. However, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure. While we take all reasonable precautions, we cannot guarantee absolute security of your information.

5. Third-Party Services & Processors

We use trusted service providers for payment processing (Stripe), cloud hosting (AWS/similar), and analytics. These providers are contractually bound to protect your data and may only use it to provide services to us. We do not share your personal information with third parties for their marketing purposes. A complete list of processors is available upon request.

6. Payment & Financial Data

Payment processing is handled exclusively by Stripe. We do not store credit card numbers, CVVs, or banking information on our servers. Your financial data is encrypted and transmitted directly to our payment processor. For details on Stripe's privacy practices, visit stripe.com/privacy.

7. Cookies & Tracking Technologies

We use cookies and similar technologies to remember preferences, analyze usage patterns, and prevent fraud. You may control cookies through browser settings, though some features may not function properly if cookies are disabled. Analytics providers may collect anonymized data; we do not permit tracking of personally identifiable information.

8. Your Rights & Choices

You have the right to: access, correct, or delete your personal data; opt out of non-essential communications; and request a copy of your data. If you reside in the EU, you have rights under GDPR including data portability and the right to be forgotten. California residents have rights under CCPA. Submit requests to privacy@writetheobituary.com with proof of identity.

9. Children's Privacy

Our service is not directed to individuals under 18. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If we become aware that a child has provided information, we will delete it promptly. Parents or guardians may contact us to report such incidents.

10. International Data Transfers

Your information may be stored and processed in the United States or other countries where our service providers operate. By using our service, you consent to the transfer of your information to countries outside your country of residence, which may have different data protection laws.

11. Data Breach Notification

In the event of a security breach that compromises your personal information, we will notify affected users without unreasonable delay, as required by applicable law. Notifications will be sent to your registered email address.

12. Policy Updates

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Material changes will be notified via email or prominent announcement on the website. Your continued use of the service after updates constitutes acceptance of the revised policy. Check the 'Last Updated' date to track changes.

13. Contact Us

For privacy inquiries, concerns, or to exercise your rights, contact us at privacy@writetheobituary.com or WriteTheObituary.com, Legal Department. We will respond to all inquiries within 30 business days.

Your obituary details are used to generate your draft — and erased after export.