Crypto Probate UK: Executor's Checklist for Digital Assets

A step-by-step checklist for UK executors dealing with cryptocurrency in probate — what to do first, how to gather evidence, and how to avoid permanent loss.

Understanding crypto in UK probate

As an executor dealing with crypto probate in the UK, you face unique challenges. Cryptocurrency has no central authority, no customer service, and no automatic inheritance process. If the deceased held crypto in self-custody wallets, you need access credentials (private keys or seed phrases) to recover the assets. Without proper documentation, these assets may be permanently inaccessible. This checklist helps you navigate the process methodically.

Step 1: Secure first, investigate second

Before taking any action, secure any devices or documents that might contain crypto access information. Do NOT attempt to access wallets without proper authority. Do NOT share recovery information with anyone claiming to help — impersonation is common. Do NOT dispose of hardware devices, USB drives, or handwritten notes. Locate and secure: computers, phones, hardware wallets (Ledger, Trezor), any written notes or documents, and safe deposit box contents.

Step 2: Establish your authority

You need legal authority to act. Apply for Grant of Probate (or Letters of Administration if no will exists). Exchanges and professional services will require this before releasing information or assets. Document your executor appointment and keep certified copies available for verification requests.

Step 3: Build the asset inventory

Create a comprehensive list of known and suspected crypto holdings. Check: bank statements for transfers to exchanges, email accounts for exchange correspondence, password managers for crypto-related entries, physical documents for wallet records, and any Policy Pack or recovery documentation left by the deceased. Record wallet types, exchange accounts, and approximate values at date of death.

Step 4: Handle exchange-held crypto

For cryptocurrency held on exchanges (Coinbase, Kraken, Binance, etc.), contact their bereavement or estates team. You will typically need: Grant of Probate, death certificate, proof of your identity, and sometimes a solicitor's letter or court order. Each exchange has different processes and timelines — expect delays. Document all correspondence and keep records of submission dates.

Step 5: Handle self-custody crypto

For cryptocurrency in self-custody wallets (hardware wallets, software wallets), you need the private keys or seed phrases. Check the deceased's documentation for recovery instructions. If a Policy Pack exists with a service like Bitzo, follow the documented workflow. If no documentation exists, search physical locations (safes, deposit boxes) and digital storage (encrypted files, password managers). Without credentials, self-custody crypto cannot be accessed.

Step 6: Verify identities and prevent fraud

Protect the estate from fraud. Anyone claiming to be a trusted contact should be verified independently. Use recorded calls and request verification codes issued at time of contact. Cross-reference claims against documentation left by the deceased. Do not release information based on unverified contact alone. Document every verification attempt for your fiduciary records.

Step 7: Report for tax and probate

Cryptocurrency must be included in the estate valuation for Inheritance Tax purposes. Obtain valuations at date of death from exchanges or reputable pricing sources. Include crypto in your IHT400 forms. Keep records of how valuations were calculated. Consult a tax adviser or accountant for complex situations or large holdings.

Common mistakes executors make with crypto

Guessing hardware wallet PINs (too many wrong attempts can lock the device permanently). Trusting unverified 'recovery services' that are actually scams. Disposing of devices before checking for crypto-related data. Not documenting the recovery process (leaving you without audit trails for beneficiaries). Acting without proper legal authority. Each mistake can cause permanent loss or personal liability.

How Bitzo helps executors

Bitzo coordinates the crypto inheritance recovery process — without holding custody and without providing legal or financial advice. If the deceased had a Bitzo Policy Pack, we follow the documented workflow: verifying your identity and authority, coordinating with designated trusted contacts, and providing full audit trails for fiduciary oversight. If no prior planning exists, we can advise on next steps. Contact us to discuss your situation or learn more about our inheritance coordination service.