A passphrase without a backup is a bet on your memory. A passphrase stored beside your phrase protects nothing. This how-to is part of our guide to the BIP39 passphrase.
The core rule
Your seed phrase and passphrase are two halves of a lock. Keep them apart, so that no single discovery exposes both.
| Scenario | Result |
|---|---|
| Thief finds your phrase only | Sees an empty or decoy wallet |
| Thief finds your passphrase only | It is useless without the words |
| Thief finds both | Everything is lost |
| You lose your phrase | Lost, unless you have a copy |
| You lose your passphrase | Lost for good |
What to write it on
Treat it as you would your phrase: paper to start with, and metal if you hold a lot. Write it exactly as you type it, including capitals and spaces. Add a mark for anything that may be misread.
Where to keep it
Use a different building from your seed phrase, if possible.
| Seed phrase | Passphrase |
|---|---|
| Home safe | With a relative, in a sealed envelope |
| Bank deposit box | At home, hidden |
| Metal plate at home | Sealed at a lawyer's office |
How many copies?
Two copies of each, in four places, is a strong design if you have them available. For many people, one copy of each, in two places, with good labels only you understand, is a reasonable start. The more you hold, the more redundancy you need. See how many backups.
What not to label
Do not write "my passphrase for wallet" on the note. Keep it plain. You still need your family to know what it is, so explain in your inheritance letter, stored apart from both.
Digital storage
Your passphrase has less exposure than your phrase, because it is useless on its own. Some people keep it in a password manager. If you do, make sure that your seed phrase is never digital. Our view is that paper remains the safest for most people.
Test your backup
- Read the written passphrase, and enter it exactly on your device.
- Confirm that you reach the expected address.
- Repeat this with your yearly health check.