How to recover a crypto wallet using a seed phrase (step-by-step)
If you still have your seed phrase (also called a recovery phrase), you can recover your crypto wallet even if your phone is lost, the app was deleted, or you forgot your password. The seed phrase is the master key that recreates your wallet and restores access to your funds.
This guide shows the safest way to restore your wallet, confirm you recovered the correct address, and secure everything afterward without falling for fake apps or “support” scams.
Safety warning
- Never share your seed phrase with anyone.
- Never type your seed phrase into a website.
- Only restore using the official wallet app from the official website or app store.
Step 1: Get the official wallet app (avoid fake apps)
Use the same wallet app you used before if possible (MetaMask, Trust Wallet, Exodus, etc.). Download only from the wallet’s official website or the official App Store/Google Play listing. Avoid ads and random download links.
- Check the developer name in the app store
- Avoid “recovery tools” or “support apps”
- Do not follow links from strangers, social media comments, or popups
Optional image: Screenshot of the official wallet listing (showing developer name).
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Upload it via Add media and insert it here.
Step 2: Choose “Restore / Import wallet”
Open the wallet app and select the option that says Restore, Import, or “I already have a wallet” (wording varies). Then choose the correct phrase length: 12 words (most common) or 15/18/24 words.
Optional image: Screenshot of the Restore/Import option screen.
Step 3: Enter your seed phrase correctly
Enter the words in the exact order. Seed phrases usually aren’t case-sensitive, but spelling and order must be perfect. Avoid extra spaces at the start or end.
- A word is misspelled
- Words are in the wrong order
- One word is missing
- The phrase belongs to a different wallet or account
Never show your seed phrase in screenshots. If you add an image of the recovery screen, blur/hide the words completely.
Step 4: Confirm you recovered the correct wallet
After importing, don’t panic if you see zero balance. This often happens because the wrong network is selected, tokens aren’t displayed yet, or you restored a different account.
| Check | What to do |
|---|---|
| Wallet address | Compare with old screenshots, exchange withdrawal history, or a TXID. |
| Correct network | Select Ethereum / BNB Chain / Polygon etc. based on where your funds are. |
| Missing tokens | Use “Add token” and add the token from an official source. |
Step 5: What to do if your balance is still zero
Try these fixes before assuming funds are lost.
- Switch accounts inside the wallet: look for “Accounts” or “Switch account”.
- Check the network again: wrong chain = wallet looks empty.
- Re-check the phrase: one wrong word or wrong order restores a different wallet.
Step 6: Secure your wallet after recovery
If you recovered the wallet because your device was stolen, hacked, or you suspect your seed phrase may have been exposed, act quickly.
- Create a new wallet (new seed phrase)
- Move your funds to the new wallet
- Enable device passcode and keep your device updated
- Enable 2FA on exchanges
- Store the seed phrase offline (paper/metal), not screenshots or cloud notes
Frequently asked questions
Can I recover my wallet without the seed phrase?
Usually no. If you don’t have the seed phrase and you can’t access the wallet, recovery may not be possible.
Is it safe to type my seed phrase into a website?
Never. Only enter your seed phrase into a trusted wallet app downloaded from official sources.
What if I only have part of the seed phrase?
In most cases, you need the full phrase in the correct order. Be careful of anyone claiming “guaranteed recovery,” as scams are common.
Final checklist
- You used the official wallet app
- You entered the seed phrase in the correct order
- You verified the wallet address
- You selected the correct network
- You secured your wallet after recovery