1
The Problem
Unlike a bank account:
- No nominee form at the branch
- No government process to claim funds
- No "forgot password" recovery
- No keys = no bitcoin — forever
If you die without a plan, your bitcoin may be lost forever.
Level 0Quest 3 / 5
Inheritance Basics
⏱ 4 min read
Bitcoin is bearer money — whoever holds the keys owns it. If something happens to you, can your family access your bitcoin? This is inheritance planning for Bitcoiners.
2
The Basics of a Bitcoin Inheritance Plan
1. Document WHERE, not WHAT
- Tell a trusted person where your seed phrase backup is stored
- Do NOT tell them the actual words in normal conversation
- Use a sealed envelope, lawyer, or safety deposit box
2. Choose Trusted People
- Spouse, adult child, sibling, or lawyer
- Someone who understands basic responsibility
- Consider two trusted people (redundancy)
3. Instructions Letter Write a simple letter explaining:
- That you own bitcoin
- Where backups are located
- Which wallets/apps you use
- Contact of a Bitcoin-knowledgeable friend if needed
4. Test the Plan
- Does your trusted person know the letter exists?
- Can they find the backup location?
- Have you explained the basics to them?
3
India-Specific Considerations
- Include bitcoin in your will — mention it exists and where instructions are
- Consult a lawyer familiar with digital assets
- Tax implications for heirs — seek professional advice
- Family may not understand Bitcoin — a short explanation letter helps
4
What NOT to Do
- ❌ Put seed phrase in your will (wills become public)
- ❌ Share seed phrase with family before it's necessary
- ❌ Store seed phrase only in your head (accidents happen)
- ❌ Assume they'll "figure it out"
✅ Key takeaway
Plan for inheritance now. Document where backups are, choose trusted people, write instructions. Your bitcoin should outlive you — not die with you.
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