Use this checklist each time you set up a wallet. It contains no secrets, and you should never add any. It sums up our seed phrase backup guide. You can print this page with your browser's print option.
Before you start
| Check | Done? |
|---|---|
| Wallet bought from the maker or an authorized seller | ☐ |
| Phrase generated by the wallet itself, in front of me | ☐ |
| Room is private, with no cameras or smart speakers | ☐ |
| Phone is out of the room | ☐ |
| Good pen and paper, or steel backup, ready | ☐ |
If a phrase came with the device, stop. See pre-generated phrase scams.
Writing it down
| Check | Done? |
|---|---|
| Every word numbered in the right order | ☐ |
| Clear block letters | ☐ |
| Each word checked against the screen | ☐ |
| Nothing else written on the sheet | ☐ |
| Nothing photographed, typed or saved | ☐ |
Full guide: how to write down a seed phrase.
Testing it
| Check | Done? |
|---|---|
| Device backup check, or full restore, completed | ☐ |
| First receiving address matched | ☐ |
| Small test transaction sent and received | ☐ |
| Passphrase tested, if used | ☐ |
Full guide: how to test your backup.
Storing it
| Check | Done? |
|---|---|
| Backup kept away from the device | ☐ |
| At least two copies, in separate places, for meaningful amounts | ☐ |
| Dry, and protected from fire if possible | ☐ |
| Passphrase backup stored away from the phrase | ☐ |
| No digital copies anywhere | ☐ |
Full guides: where to store a seed phrase and how many backups.
Staying safe
| Check | Done? |
|---|---|
| I know that nobody legitimate will ever ask for my words | ☐ |
| Someone I trust knows a backup exists | ☐ |
| Inheritance plan written | ☐ |
| Reminder set for a yearly health check | ☐ |