Executors and crypto — seed phrases, exchanges and probate
Quick answer: Executors should secure devices, contact exchanges with death certificates, obtain probate valuations, and never publish seed phrases. Seek legal and technical help if needed.
Administering an estate with crypto is harder than a bank account. Exchanges may freeze accounts; wallets need keys.
First steps
Secure phones, laptops and hardware wallets. Document what you find. Contact exchanges with the death certificate and grant of probate when available.
Plan for ownership and access
An original digital-estate planning illustration
An executor needs to identify the assets and follow a secure access process. Legal instructions and private-key security need to work together; do not publish recovery phrases.
Read the diagram as text
- 01. Inventory. Record what exists and where the records are kept.
- 02. Legal instructions. Document your wishes and the appropriate executor role.
- 03. Secure access plan. Arrange a safe recovery process without exposing secrets.
Seed phrases
If the deceased left secure instructions, follow them privately. Never email seed phrases or store them in probate papers that become public.
For arrangements made before they are needed, see the secure inheritance-access guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can an exchange refuse to release crypto? +
Exchanges follow their terms and UK law. Executors may need probate documents and proof of authority.