Free Cryptocurrency Inheritance Guide
Step-by-step tutorial for safely transferring inherited crypto from decentralized wallets to exchanges
What You Need Before Starting
Essential Information:
- The wallet's seed phrase (12-24 words) or private keys
- Knowledge of which cryptocurrencies are in the wallet
- Access to the deceased person's wallet software or app
Never share seed phrases or private keys with anyone. These give complete control over the wallet's contents.
Step 1: Secure Access to the Wallet
If you have the seed phrase:
- 1Download the appropriate wallet software (MetaMask, Trust Wallet, etc.)
- 2Choose "Import wallet" or "Restore from seed phrase"
- 3Enter the seed phrase exactly as written
- 4Set a new password for your access
If you only have private keys:
- 1Use wallet software that supports private key import
- 2Look for "Import private key" option
- 3Enter each private key for different cryptocurrencies
Step 2: Identify Your Holdings
Once you've accessed the wallet:
- Review all cryptocurrency balances
- Take screenshots for your records
- Note the wallet addresses for each cryptocurrency
- Check for any pending transactions
Common cryptocurrencies you might find:
Step 3: Choose Your Destination
Centralized Exchanges (easiest for beginners):
- • Coinbase
- • Kraken
- • Binance (where legally available)
- • Gemini
Other Options:
- • Hardware wallets (Ledger, Trezor) for long-term storage
- • Different software wallets
- • Other exchanges
Step 4: Set Up Your Destination Wallet/Exchange
- 1Create an account on your chosen exchange
- 2Complete identity verification (KYC process)
- 3Enable two-factor authentication
- 4Locate your deposit addresses for each cryptocurrency
Important: Each cryptocurrency has its own deposit address. Bitcoin goes to a Bitcoin address, Ethereum to an Ethereum address, etc.
Step 5: Transfer the Cryptocurrency
Before sending large amounts, always test with a small amount first.
For each cryptocurrency:
1. In the inherited wallet:
- • Select "Send" or "Transfer"
- • Enter the destination address from your exchange
- • Double-check the address character by character
- • Set an appropriate transaction fee (higher fees = faster confirmation)
2. Verify the details:
- • Recipient address is correct
- • Amount is correct
- • You're sending the right cryptocurrency
- • Network/chain is correct (especially for tokens)
3. Send the transaction:
- • Confirm and authorize the transfer
- • Save the transaction ID/hash for your records
Need Professional Help?
If you're dealing with large amounts (over $10,000) or complex situations, consider professional consultation.
Our CFA and CAIA-credentialed team provides institutional-grade guidance for cryptocurrency inheritance.
Important Safety Reminders
Remember: Take your time, verify everything twice, and don't hesitate to ask for help when dealing with significant amounts. The irreversible nature of cryptocurrency transactions makes careful preparation essential.