An optional passphrase combines with your seed to create a different wallet, protecting you if the seed is stolen. Learn the benefits and the risks.
A second factor for your seed
BIP 39 allows an optional passphrase. The seed words plus the passphrase produce the wallet's keys. A different passphrase, even one character different, gives a completely different, valid-looking wallet.
Why use one
- Someone who finds your seed words alone can't spend the funds.
- You can keep a small "decoy" wallet with no passphrase and the real funds behind the passphrase.
The risks
- No passphrase recovery. Forget it or mistype it once, and the funds are effectively gone.
- There's no "wrong passphrase" error. The wallet just opens an empty one, which can be alarming.
Tips
- Use a long but memorable phrase.
- Back it up separately from the seed, so one discovery doesn't reveal both.
- Test it: note the first receive address, then restore and confirm you get the same one.
Passphrase vs PIN vs password
| Passphrase | Device PIN | App password | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Changes which keys you get | Yes | No | No |
| Recoverable if forgotten | No | Reset with the seed | Reset with the seed |
| Protects a stolen seed | Yes | No | No |
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Key takeaways
- A passphrase plus the seed creates a different wallet.
- A stolen seed alone can't reach passphrase-protected funds.
- A forgotten passphrase can't be recovered.
Common questions
Is the passphrase the same as my device PIN?
No. The PIN unlocks the device; the passphrase changes which keys are derived.
Can a wallet tell me if my passphrase is wrong?
No. Every passphrase opens a valid wallet. Check against a known first address.
Is a passphrase the same as a 25th word?
Yes; it's often called the 25th (or 13th) word, though it can be any text.
Should beginners use a passphrase?
Only if they can reliably back it up. Forgetting it locks the funds permanently.