How to Leave Crypto in a Will (UK): Step-by-Step Guide

A practical UK guide on how to leave cryptocurrency in your will — covering legal requirements, security considerations, and ensuring your digital assets reach your beneficiaries.

Why leaving crypto in a will requires special planning

Leaving cryptocurrency in a will is different from traditional assets. Unlike bank accounts or property, crypto has no central authority to transfer ownership. If your executor cannot access your wallets, your digital assets may be permanently lost. This guide explains how to leave crypto in a will while maintaining security and ensuring your beneficiaries can actually receive what you intend to leave them.

Step 1: Create an inventory of your crypto holdings

Start by documenting all your cryptocurrency holdings: which coins and tokens you own, which wallets hold them (hardware wallets, software wallets, exchange accounts), approximate values, and how each wallet is accessed. Do not include private keys or seed phrases in this inventory — that information requires separate, secure handling.

Step 2: Acknowledge digital assets in your will

Your will should acknowledge that you hold digital assets and direct your executor to a separate document or trusted contact for recovery instructions. Avoid putting technical details, wallet addresses, or access credentials in the will itself — wills become public documents during probate. A simple clause such as 'I hold cryptocurrency assets; my executor should refer to my Policy Pack held with [trusted party] for recovery instructions' is sufficient.

Step 3: Create secure recovery documentation

Prepare a separate, secure document that explains how to access your crypto. This should include: wallet types and locations, step-by-step recovery instructions, contact details for any third parties involved (exchanges, coordination services), and the identity of trusted contacts who can assist. Store this document securely — encrypted digital storage, a safe deposit box, or with a professional service.

Step 4: Establish a verification process

Your executor needs a way to prove their authority and verify their identity before anyone releases access information. A robust process includes: Grant of Probate as proof of authority, identity verification through recorded calls and rotating codes, cross-referencing against your documented wishes, and escalation procedures if any check fails. This protects against impersonation and fraud.

Step 5: Inform your executor and solicitor

Tell your executor that you hold cryptocurrency and explain the separate recovery process. They do not need technical expertise — they need to know the process exists and who to contact. Brief your solicitor as well, particularly if they are drafting your will. Many solicitors are still learning about crypto; a clear explanation helps them advise appropriately.

Common mistakes when leaving crypto in a will

Writing seed phrases in the will (wills are public documents). Assuming executors will find crypto without documentation. Relying on a single point of failure (one person, one device, one location). Not updating documentation when holdings change. Sharing access too broadly, creating theft risk. Each of these mistakes can result in permanent loss or unauthorised access.

How Bitzo helps with crypto inheritance planning

Bitzo provides the coordination layer for crypto inheritance — without custody, without advice, without ever requesting your seed phrases. We help you document what exists, verify trusted contacts through recorded calls and rotating codes, and create comprehensive Policy Packs that executors can actually use. When the time comes, we coordinate the recovery process with full audit trails. Learn more about our digital asset inheritance service or speak with our team about your situation.