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How to assign an inheritance key in Theya

Joe Consorti avatar
Written by Joe Consorti
Updated over 2 weeks ago

If you want to include a trusted heir or beneficiary in your vault setup, Theya makes it easy to assign one of your vault keys for inheritance. This allows the intended recipient to co-sign with Theya to recover the bitcoin in the event of your passing, without compromising access while you're alive.


Step-by-step: assigning an inheritance key

  1. Create or open your vault

    • Navigate to the Vaults tab

    • Select the vault you’d like to configure for inheritance

  2. Go to Key Management

    • Click on the vault

    • Open the Key Management tab

  3. Select an available key slot

    • If you’re creating a new vault, you can assign the second key to your beneficiary

    • If replacing an existing key, click Manage and then Change Device

  4. Have the beneficiary set up their device

    • The beneficiary must use a Theya-supported hardware wallet (e.g., Coldcard, Trezor) or a secure mobile key

    • The setup process guides them through adding their key

  5. Document your inheritance wishes

    • Include this setup in your will or estate plan

    • Let your heir know Theya will assist them if the time comes

    • Ensure they understand how to access the device but avoid premature use


Best practices

  • Use a dedicated hardware wallet for inheritance purposes

  • Store all key-related instructions in a safe and clearly labeled location

  • Communicate your plan to your attorney or estate executor

  • Explain assisted recovery in the Theya app that will allow your heir and Theya to move funds in the future


How inheritance works at time of recovery

If your beneficiary needs to recover the funds:

  • The beneficiary will mark your key as lost in the Theya app or web app, or contact Theya Support to initiate the process

  • The beneficiary will answer their security questions

  • A mandatory 4-day waiting period is enforced

  • Theya will co-sign the transaction only if security questions are answered correctly, allowing the heir to move funds


📈 Get started with Theya

Protect your legacy with secure, self-custodial bitcoin inheritance.


Visit business.theya.us to create an account or schedule a demo.

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