How can my family access my Ledger Hardware Wallet account after I die?

The process typically involves contacting Ledger Hardware Wallet with a death certificate and proof of relationship. Our step-by-step guide walks you through the exact procedure.

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What Happens to Your Ledger Hardware Wallet Account When You Die

Seed phrase criticalDevice PIN needed

Quick Facts

Recovery

Seed phrase

3 wrong = wipe

Value

Potentially huge

Step-by-Step Guide

Locate the physical Ledger device

Find the Ledger Nano S/X/S Plus. Location should be documented in vault.

Locate seed phrase backup

The 24-word seed phrase is the recovery key. It should be on a metal plate or paper in a secure location.

Warning: Do NOT guess the PIN — 3 wrong attempts wipes the device

If PIN is known, access directly

Enter PIN on device, open Ledger Live app on computer to see all balances.

If PIN unknown, restore with seed phrase

Buy a new Ledger, restore using the seed phrase during setup.

Document Now Checklist

Ledger device physical location
Seed phrase storage location
PIN location if documented
Which cryptocurrencies are stored

Last verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with Ledger Hardware Wallet. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

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Coinbase

Record the email address linked to your Coinbase account. Do NOT record your password here.

Crypto.com

Crypto.com has an exchange, DeFi wallet, Visa card, and Earn products. Document each one separately.

Gemini

Record the email linked to your Gemini account.

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