Published on: 13th July 2026

Cryptocurrency and your Will: Why Digital Assets Should Never be Overlooked

As cryptocurrency continues to move into the mainstream, more individuals are accumulating digital assets such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies as part of their overall wealth. Yet many people have not considered what happens to these assets when they die.

Unlike traditional bank accounts and investments, digital assets can be difficult—or even impossible—for executors and beneficiaries to access if proper planning has not been put in place. This makes it essential to consider cryptocurrency when preparing or updating your Will.

What Are Digital Assets?

Digital assets include:

• Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin
• Stablecoins and digital currencies held on exchanges
• Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs)
• Online investment accounts
• Digital wallets and private keys
• Revenue-generating online businesses or digital property

For many investors, these assets may represent a significant portion of their estate.

The Challenge with Cryptocurrency

Unlike a traditional bank account, cryptocurrency is typically controlled through private keys, passwords, recovery phrases, and digital wallets. There is no central authority that can simply reset access if information is lost.

If the owner dies without leaving clear instructions, their family may know the assets exist but have no practical way of accessing them.

In some cases, substantial amounts of cryptocurrency have been permanently lost because the necessary access credentials were never shared with anyone.

Why Cryptocurrency Should Be Included in Your Will

1. Ensure Assets Can Be Identified: 
   
   An executor can only deal with assets they know about. If cryptocurrency holdings are not disclosed, they may never be discovered during the estate administration process.
   
   A Will can provide guidance about the existence of digital assets and where records relating to them can be found.
   
   
2. Protect the Value of Your Estate
   
   Cryptocurrency can represent considerable value. If access is lost, the financial loss falls directly on beneficiaries.
   
   By documenting your holdings and providing a clear framework for your executors, you help preserve the value of your estate for future generations.
   
   
3. Reduce Delays and Administrative Difficulties
   
   Executors already face numerous responsibilities when administering an estate. Digital assets add another layer of complexity.
   
   A well-drafted Will, supported by clear records, can significantly reduce delays, confusion, and unnecessary legal costs.
   
   
4. Ensure Assets Pass to the Right Beneficiaries
   
   You may wish specific cryptocurrency holdings to pass to certain beneficiaries or be divided according to a particular strategy.
   
   Including appropriate provisions within your estate plan ensures your wishes are carried out accurately.

 
What Information Should Be Recorded?

While sensitive passwords and private keys should generally not be written directly into a Will (which may become a public document after probate), it is important to maintain a secure record of:

• The type of cryptocurrency held
• The platform or exchange where it is held
• Wallet locations
• Recovery phrases or access instructions stored securely
• Contact information for professional advisers who understand the holdings

These records should be regularly reviewed and updated as investments change.

 
The Role of Executors

Choosing executors who are capable of dealing with modern digital assets is becoming increasingly important.

Where significant cryptocurrency holdings exist, professional advice may be required to help executors locate, value, secure, and transfer the assets appropriately.

Estate Planning for the Digital Age

The way we hold wealth is changing. Whilst Wills have traditionally focused on property, bank accounts, and personal possessions, today's estate plans must also address digital wealth.

Failing to account for cryptocurrency can create significant complications for loved ones at an already difficult time. By including digital assets within your estate planning and ensuring appropriate access arrangements are in place, you can help protect your wealth and provide clarity for your beneficiaries.

Final Thoughts

Cryptocurrency may exist in a digital world, but it remains a very real asset with real value. Just as you would include property, investments, and savings within your estate planning, digital assets deserve the same careful consideration.

Reviewing your Will regularly and ensuring your digital assets are properly documented can make the difference between preserving a valuable inheritance and losing it forever.

If you would like to speak with one of our Consultants to discuss any of the issues raised in this article or any other Estate Planning topic please telephone 01732 868 190 or click here.

Back to all news